Socio-Economic Reintegration of Ex-Combatants and Peacebuilding in Kamanyola Town, South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo

ABSTRACT This study delved into the relationship between reintegration of ex-combatants and peace building process where the following aspects were investigated: (1) socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents; (2) social reintegration of ex-combatants and peace building, implementation of reintegration process of ex-combatants and others as well. This study is contextually new which intend to fill in the gap where there was no similar been done in the specific area of reintegration of ex-combatants and in its contribution to the peace-building in Kamonyola town of South Kivu. A descriptive survey design was used to analyze the reintegration of ex-combatants, the descriptive analysis enabled of respondents regarding the impact of soc-economic reintegration in the peace-building process in Kamonyola town. The study used purposive sampling to select the total population of 400 based on the data obtained from the local council of Kamoyola town. Two hundred ex-combatants were selected randomly in order to give chance for all ex-combatants of being selected. Questionnaires on reintegration and peace building process were prepared and distributed. The collected data were processed and analyzed using frequency tables and percentage distribution, t-test and Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient were utilized to statistically analyze the data collected. Also the study used transformation theory and conceptual framework. The study revealed that majority of the ex-combatants were involved in social integration activities (mean=2.89). The study revealed a low level of socio-economic integration among ex-combatants (mean=2.48). The study revealed a low level of socio-economic integration among ex-combatants (mean=2.92).There was a strong and positive correlation between social economic integration and peace building (r=.898**, Sig=.006). The researcher concluded that the feeling of the ex-combatant on the transition from combat to civilian life has not been easy for any of them. The researcher recommended that the community should work hand in hand to support the DDR programmes whose sole purpose is to reintegrate ex-combatants economically in their community. This will help them feel comfortable with the transition from combat to civilian life. Also Recommendations were made for all DDR actors for creating conducive environment for the peace-building toward completing the reintegration of the ex-combatants and expand access to education job opportunities to reduce the risks of young generation being mobilized by armed groups. Finally, if the reintegration provision is carried as required the result will definitely be in favor of peace and stability.