Story perspectives

UN Reports 2,365 Children Recruited by Militias in Congo

3/27/2026

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Children Escaping Militias

The United Nations reports that armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo recruited 2,365 children in 2025.
Kito, a 17-year-old who served in a militia, says he killed over 100 people and escaped in November 2024.
Imani was recruited at age 12, endured abuse, became a mother at 15, and escaped in 2024.
Both children face reintegration challenges and ongoing trauma as they try to rebuild their lives.

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ISCAP Attacks Mine

The Islamic State’s Central Africa Province (ISCAP) attacked the Muchacha gold mine in Ituri Province, Congo, from March 11-12, 2026, marking its first strike on a large semi-industrial mine.
The assault resulted in at least 17 deaths and significant damage, including looting and destruction of equipment.
Following the attack, the Congolese military encountered ambushes, demonstrating ISCAP's operational reach.
ISCAP has improved its capabilities with advanced technology, such as drones and GPS, increasing its threat to regional mining operations.

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Children Escaping Militias

The United Nations reports that armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo recruited 2,365 children in 2025.
Kito, a 17-year-old who served in a militia, says he killed over 100 people and escaped in November 2024.
Imani was recruited at age 12, endured abuse, became a mother at 15, and escaped in 2024.
Both children face reintegration challenges and ongoing trauma as they try to rebuild their lives.

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