Despite Escalating Conflict in Eastern DRC, Civilian Protection Remains Central, Says MONUSCO Chief
In a recent interview ahead of her Security Council briefing in New York, Bintou Keita, head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), emphasized that the protection of civilians remains a top priority, even amid renewed violence in the eastern part of the country.
Encouraging Progress in Mediation
Keita pointed to a recent meeting in Qatar between President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda as a hopeful sign. The two leaders, who had not met face-to-face for a long time, called for a ceasefire—an encouraging step, according to Keita.
MONUSCO, she added, has been actively supporting mediation initiatives, particularly those led by Angola. The mission has contributed its on-the-ground expertise and expressed readiness to monitor any genuine ceasefire in the region. Despite its withdrawal from South Kivu in June 2024, MONUSCO peacekeepers remain operational in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri.
Disengagement Plans on Hold
Initially, MONUSCO had been working with the Congolese government on a phased and responsible withdrawal from the region, drawing from lessons learned during its exit from South Kivu. Plans for a roadmap detailing the process in North Kivu and Ituri were to be presented to the Security Council.
However, the resurgence of violence, particularly the M23 rebel offensive, has halted those disengagement discussions. “Managing the crisis became the immediate priority,” said Keita. She noted that the Secretary-General would submit a letter to the Security Council acknowledging that current circumstances have made it impossible to advance disengagement efforts at this time.
Continuing Civilian Protection Amid Conflict
Despite the deteriorating security situation, MONUSCO has continued its mission to protect civilians. In North Kivu, where M23 forces have control over certain areas, peacekeepers’ ability to carry out patrols is restricted. Nonetheless, MONUSCO bases have become sanctuaries for thousands seeking refuge.
“There are three key components to civilian protection: political commitment, physical safety through presence, and creating conditions for psychosocial well-being,” Keita explained. At their bases in Goma, MONUSCO is sheltering displaced people, considering all within its compounds as civilians regardless of their background, provided they are unarmed.
“Our primary focus now is not on patrolling, but on welcoming and safeguarding those who seek protection,” she emphasized.
Rethinking Humanitarian Aid Models
Addressing the repercussions of a freeze in U.S. humanitarian funding, Keita suggested that a new approach to aid is needed—one that empowers national and local non-governmental organizations. She highlighted that 70% of humanitarian aid in DRC had relied on U.S. funding, particularly from USAID.
“With diminishing resources, we have to ask: how do we adapt? Perhaps it’s time to develop alternative models of humanitarian response,” she said. Local NGOs, which often maintain access to affected populations regardless of the security context, should be prioritized.
Combating Sexual Violence
Keita also addressed the disturbing rise in conflict-related sexual violence, noting that despite ongoing advocacy, little progress has been made in curbing the trend. She called for a comprehensive, survivor-centered response that includes psychological trauma care, medical services, and legal support.
While acknowledging the Congolese government’s inclination toward offering reparations, she questioned whether these efforts are timely or adequate in light of “the magnitude of the violence.”
Child Recruitment by Armed Groups
In response to reports that the M23 is recruiting children, Keita expressed deep concern and frustration that recruitment continues despite extensive advocacy.
To combat this, she stressed the need for grassroots engagement. “These armed groups originate from the communities—they have families,” she said. “Changing the situation will require working directly with these communities to raise awareness and prevent children from being drawn into armed conflict.”
As eastern DRC continues to grapple with violence and instability, MONUSCO remains committed to its core mission: protecting civilians and supporting peace efforts, even under the most challenging conditions.
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