Since August 2016, the Kasaï region has seen one of the most dramatic escalations of violence in Congolese history. Levels of humanitarian suffering are extremely high, and the potential for further violence remains. It is difficult to envisage a comprehensive solution to these challenges, or to prevent further violence, without addressing national dynamics. The Congolese government will need to set up initiatives, backed by donors, to address customary conflicts and to reform traditional power structures. Efforts to break the economic isolation of the Kasaï provinces, and to promote inclusive dialogue should continue. Perhaps most importantly, government officials, including army officers, must be held accountable for fostering violence or using disproportionate force to quell it. Read our analysis here.