Food security at the crossroads of conflict and economic priorities: the case of Bukavu, DRC

Abstract

In Bukavu and other Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) cities, food security faces significant challenges due to rapid population growth, war-driven immigration, and a governmental orientation towards the mineral sector. These issues are exacerbated by the exodus from farming communities, low agricultural yields, and poor infrastructure limiting access to farming inputs and local markets. Consequently, local communities rely heavily on food imports, often becoming vulnerable to accessing only highly processed, nutrient-poor foods. This study examines how these factors, combined with reduced local food production and poor infrastructure, impact food security in the city. First, a literature review was conducted to map relevant actors and existing research on food security, nutrition, and health policies. Focus group discussions were then conducted with nutritionists, urban planners, policymakers, local authorities, private sector actors, academics, and consumers, as well as key informant interviews with users and providers of both formal and informal food services, to gain a deeper understanding of these factors. Our analysis reveals that Bukavu’s history is deeply intertwined with extractivism, marked by conflict and resource exploitation, shaping its economy, infrastructure, and governance, often at the expense of local communities and the environment. This dynamic has had lasting impacts on key food security drivers and contributed to social instability. We consider implications for improving food security in Bukavu, taking into account pressures from extractivism, the demographic boom, and ongoing conflict. This study aims to better understand food security in conflict-affected regions and offers insights for policy and intervention development.