By zooming in on Djugu territory, an area rich in gold in the center of Ituri, this report provides a detailed description of local conflict dynamics. During the second Congo war (1998-2003), economic stakes were high and access to gold drove several conflict actors (Congolese and regional) in Ituri to resort to violence as they sought for control of the high value resource. This report investigates the link between the exploitation of gold in Djugu territory and the current conflict. It addresses the question of whether the current conflicts in Ituri province result from competition over mineral resources, or is the presence of gold mines rather an opportunity to finance war efforts? Although nowadays gold does not seem to be the prime cause of conflict, it is becoming increasingly an important asset in the survival strategies of armed groups.
