The head of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), James Swan, has visited Goma in eastern DRC as part of efforts to support the implementation of the ongoing ceasefire and advance peacebuilding initiatives in the conflict-affected region.
The visit marks his first official mission to eastern DRC since assuming office, at a time when Goma remains under the control of the AFC/M23 armed group and diplomatic efforts continue to stabilize the area.
Prior to arriving in Goma, Swan toured several locations including Beni, Eringeti, Bunia, and Fataki, where he engaged MONUSCO personnel and local stakeholders on security conditions and operational challenges.
Strengthening ceasefire monitoring and UN mandate implementation
Upon arrival in Goma, Swan said his mission focuses on engaging MONUSCO staff, assessing field realities, and consulting local authorities on how to effectively implement the UN mandate in the region.
He emphasized that his discussions are guided by United Nations Security Council resolutions 2773 (2025) and 2808 (2025), which define MONUSCO’s current operational framework.
“I came to meet our staff, understand their analysis, engage with the leadership here, and assess how MONUSCO can continue fulfilling its mandate,” Swan said.
His visit follows recent diplomatic engagements under the Doha peace framework, including talks held in Switzerland between the Government of the DRC and the AFC/M23 movement, aimed at advancing a political solution to the conflict in eastern Congo.
Call for adherence to ceasefire conditions
Swan welcomed progress made in ongoing negotiations, particularly regarding humanitarian assistance and civilian protection, and urged all parties to maintain commitment to the peace process.
He stressed that effective ceasefire implementation depends on strict compliance with key security conditions, including halting drone-related hostilities, avoiding disruptions to GPS systems, ensuring unrestricted movement for MONUSCO personnel, and safeguarding the use of airspace and airports.
He noted that adherence to these conditions is essential to reducing tensions, building trust among stakeholders, and creating space for a lasting political settlement.
“We expect this visit to help strengthen efforts to reduce violence, build public confidence, and support the implementation of the ceasefire toward lasting peace in eastern DRC,” he said.
UN Security Council extends MONUSCO mandate
The visit comes shortly after the United Nations Security Council extended MONUSCO’s mandate until December 20, 2026, under Resolution 2808, with a renewed focus on civilian protection and support for stabilization efforts in eastern DRC.
The mission is authorized to maintain up to 11,500 military personnel, 600 military observers, 443 police officers, and specialized police units deployed across volatile regions.
As security and diplomatic efforts continue, MONUSCO says its priority remains supporting the protection of civilians and contributing to conditions necessary for sustainable peace in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
