Article: The MONUSCO withdrawal process in the DRC discussed during Bintou Keita’s visit to Uvira
The Special Representative of the UN Secretary General in the DRC, Bintou Keita, traveled to Uvira, in the province of South Kivu, to begin discussions on the process of withdrawal of MONUSCO (United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo). This meeting made it possible to discuss the transition program planned jointly with the Congolese government.
During these exchanges, Bintou Keita met the mayor of Uvira, the administrator of the territory as well as representatives of civil society and women candidates for the elections. The objective of this meeting was to explain the transition program and to discuss the measures to be taken to ensure effective succession in securing and protecting civilians in the region.
The administrator of Uvira territory, Mabiswa Selemani, took this opportunity to ask Bintou Keita to advocate for the strengthening of the capacities of the Congolese police forces (PNC) and the Congolese armed forces (FARDC). He underlined the importance of collaborating with local leaders to find solutions to the insecurity raging in eastern DRC, and more particularly in the territory of Uvira.
Currently, the Uvira region is experiencing relative calm thanks to the operations carried out by the FARDC to track down armed groups. However, Mabiswa Selemani believes that MONUSCO could further strengthen security services, logistics and communications to ensure a smooth transition.
Prior to her visit to Uvira, Bintou Keita also traveled to Mikenge, in the highlands of Itombwe sector, Mwenga territory. These exchanges and visits are part of the process of progressive and responsible withdrawal of MONUSCO, in collaboration with the Congolese government, in order to consolidate the benefits already recorded and gradually strengthen the capacities of the State.
This visit by Bintou Keita highlights the importance of dialogue between local authorities and MONUSCO to ensure a successful transition and lasting security in the region. The withdrawal of MONUSCO represents a real challenge, but with continued collaboration and capacity building of Congolese forces, it is possible to maintain stability and protect civilians.
In summary, Bintou Keita’s visit to Uvira to discuss the MONUSCO withdrawal process highlights the need to build the capacity of Congolese security forces and work with local authorities to ensure a smooth transition. Consolidating the benefits already gained and progressively strengthening the state are essential to maintain stability and security in the region