On June 25, 2024, a historic event took place in South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo: the closing ceremony of MONUSCO bases. This United Nations peacekeeping mission, present in the region since 1999, marked the end of its presence in this part of the east of the country. Under the watchful eyes of Prime Minister Judith Suminwa and numerous officials, MONUSCO military and civilian bases were officially closed during a solemn ceremony in Kavumu, in the Kabare territory.
The moving speeches given during this event highlighted the importance of the work carried out by MONUSCO personnel over the last two decades. Bintou Keita, the special representative of the UN Secretary-General in the DRC, expressed her gratitude to the civil and military forces who worked for the peace and security of the province. She also paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty, highlighting the commitment and dedication of peacekeepers in often difficult conditions.
Deputy Prime Minister Jacquemain Shabani, for his part, praised the work of MONUSCO in stabilizing the country, recalling that this mission had intervened at a time when certain provinces were in the grip of unrest linked to rebel groups. He highlighted the country’s transformation into a unified nation, ready to defend its integrity against any form of destabilization or foreign occupation.
The closing ceremony of the MONUSCO bases was also marked by the transfer of assets worth 10 million US dollars to the Congolese authorities. This symbolic gesture demonstrates MONUSCO’s confidence in the capacity of the Congolese government to ensure the security and protection of populations in the region. In addition, the Mission handed over to the Armed Forces of the DRC a heliport and a base in Rutemba, thus strengthening the capacities of national institutions.
This transition marks a new era for South Kivu, where the responsibility for maintaining peace and security now rests fully with the Congolese authorities. MONUSCO is leaving the region, leaving behind a legacy of protecting civilians, strengthening security capacities and promoting dialogue and social cohesion. Despite the challenges encountered, the withdrawal of troops and equipment took place in an orderly manner, highlighting the effective collaboration between the UN Mission and the Congolese government.
In conclusion, the closure of MONUSCO bases in South Kivu marks the end of an important chapter in the history of the region. This is the beginning of a new era where the Congolese authorities are called upon to fully assume their responsibility for the security and protection of populations.. The work accomplished by MONUSCO during these years has helped build the foundations of lasting peace and a more stable future for South Kivu and the DRC as a whole.
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