The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, James Swan, has begun his first field visit to eastern DRC since assuming office.
Swan arrived in Beni on 20 April, where the first day of his visit focused on assessing the security situation in the Grand Nord region, reviewing civilian protection efforts, and strengthening engagement with provincial authorities.
Upon arrival, Swan and his delegation received a security briefing before proceeding to MONUSCO Force Headquarters, where they were welcomed with a guard of honour and further briefed on the evolving security dynamics in the area.
The mission highlighted ongoing threats facing civilians, particularly linked to the activities of armed groups operating in North Kivu, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).
While authorities noted a recent decline in violence in some localities, officials warned that the region remains highly unstable due to the continued movement of armed groups and persistent insecurity across parts of the Grand Nord.
In the afternoon, Swan held discussions with MONUSCO officials and members of the UN Country Team to assess both the security and humanitarian situation in Beni and surrounding areas.
The talks focused on ongoing UN-led interventions aimed at supporting communities affected by conflict and addressing urgent humanitarian needs.
Swan later met with the Military Governor of North Kivu, Evariste Kakule Somo, at the Governor’s Office, where discussions centred on civilian protection, security coordination and cooperation between MONUSCO and Congolese authorities.
The meeting also reviewed recommendations from recent peace dialogues addressing insecurity linked to armed groups in the region.
Officials described the visit as part of Swan’s broader approach to engagement based on dialogue, proximity and partnership with local stakeholders and national institutions.
The mission reiterated MONUSCO’s continued focus on protecting civilians and supporting stabilization efforts in eastern DR Congo, a region long affected by armed conflict and humanitarian crises.
