In the Kanyaruchinya camp near Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, volunteer artists led by Butsiire Samuel provide art therapy to displaced children, offering psychological support and a sense of hope. The initiative helps children cope with trauma from the ongoing conflict involving the Congolese army and M23 rebels. Despite the harsh conditions and lack of schooling, the art classes offer a therapeutic escape and a means to express their experiences and aspirations.

Clashes between M23 rebels and the DRC's armed forces in North Kivu's Rutshuru territory have led to significant population displacement, with many children separated from their parents. Maniraguha Nzabagasani and Justine Nzabahariye are among the displaced mothers who have lost contact with their children. The International Committee for the Red Cross reports over 800 unaccompanied children, while UNICEF notes that more than 158,000 people, half of them children, have been displaced since March due to intensified armed clashes.

Teachers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have been on strike since early October, protesting issues such as salaries and retirement age. Despite the National Teacher Union's call to suspend the strike, state teachers and public schools in North Kivu continue to strike due to unmet demands. Parents express frustration over the lack of education for their children. A meeting on 8 November may bring new directions for the strike, while dialogue between trade unions and the Congolese government is ongoing in Central Kongo.

Congolese Prime Minister Sama Lukonde concluded a 4-day mission in North Kivu and Ituri, assessing the state of siege in these provinces. Despite some progress, locals remain skeptical about the effectiveness of his visit, fearing it may be just another routine inspection with no substantial outcomes. The Prime Minister's visit has sparked mixed reactions, with some seeing it as a positive step towards peace, while others doubt any real change will follow. The region continues to suffer from insecurity, and Kinshasa has sought foreign assistance to restore peace.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a draft law proposing to exclude individuals from presidential and other government positions if both parents are not Congolese has sparked controversy. The bill is seen as potentially divisive and a threat to national unity by some, including political analyst Omar Matandiko. It is also viewed as targeting opposition figure Moise Katumbi, who is of partial Greek descent. With the presidential election two years away, there is speculation that President Felix Tshisekedi may use this law to exclude Katumbi from the race. The draft legislation is currently facing a divided National Assembly and has been criticized as discriminatory and unconstitutional.

Congolese authorities are assisting displaced residents of Goma to return home after last month's volcanic eruption, but many are reluctant due to the destruction of their homes and slow government response. Francine Byenda, a mother of nine, expresses frustration over the lack of clear plans for their return. Approximately 400,000 residents fled Goma following the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo, with many still awaiting adequate arrangements from the provincial government.