Aganze chambu Natasha2024-10-312024-10-312024-09-27https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12311/2135This study examined the multi-faceted role of non-state actors in shaping peace and security in eastern DRC: a case of Goma camp. The objectives that guided the study included, among others, finding out some of the peace and securities practices in the DRC; mapping out the forms and phases of the peace processes and practices involving a wide variety of non-state actors across different conflict areas in the DRC; establishing the factors influencing peace and security among non-state actors in the Goma camp; and providing insight into how to promote and realize the salient functions and potential of non-state actors for a more inclusive, holistic, and durable peace landscape in the DRC. This study was carried out using a case study research design, where a qualitative research approach was also employed. The data were obtained through interviews and focus group discussions during the data collection. In this context, both purposive and simple random sampling methods were used to obtain a sample size of 38 respondents who were the top administrators of MONUSCO and leaders, plus focus group discussions with 30 displaced people living in Goma Camp. The results of this study represent a very complex landscape of peace and security practices in Goma Camp, revealing what has been achieved so far, as well as what the particular challenges are. Although mediation, community policing, and support programs play significant roles in peacebuilding processes, these initiatives are hindered by resource scarcity, lack of coordination, tensions within the community, and poor communication in fully carrying out their work. Issues such as enhancing community participation, better coordination by non-state actors themselves, and how to deal with the challenges through improved training, communication, and selective support-all have a critical bearing on making the peace process more inclusive and durable in the DRC. These are fundamental in attempting to bring stability and actually help the displaced population effectively. It finally recommended that community participation in peacebuilding be increased, coordination among non-state actors be enhanced, communication and transparency be promoted, funding is made sustainable, and training and capacity-building programs are increased. These will be of great help in making the process of peace in Goma Camp more inclusive, effective, and sustainable through the taking of varied needs into consideration, using resources to the fullest, and having all active stakeholders duly supported.enThesis