DR Congo: James Swan: “Ituri remains a priority for MONUSCO”

Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo Source: UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo “ The province of Ituri remains a strategic priority for MONUSCO, given the persistent security challenges, particularly the activities of local and foreign armed groups. ” This statement was made on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, by James Christopher Swan, the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General in the DRC and Head of MONUSCO, following a series of meetings with the military governor of Ituri, Johnny Luboya Nkashama, and the Provincial Security Committee. Having arrived the previous day in Bunia from Beni, he held discussions with provincial authorities, particularly on the security situation in the province, the protection of civilians, and joint efforts to be strengthened toward sustainable stabilization in Ituri. “ Ituri remains a priority province for MONUSCO. Civilian populations continue to be affected by violence from armed groups, notably the Convention for Popular Revolution (CRP) and the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO), resulting in massive displacement and intercommunal tensions. In this context, MONUSCO provides direct physical protection to nearly one hundred thousand displaced persons, in close collaboration with Congolese national forces, ” said the head of MONUSCO. James Swan also emphasized several key drivers for sustainable stabilization in the province, including strengthening state authority, combating impunity, accountability, and reinforcing community dialogue mechanisms. “ The stabilization of Ituri requires strengthening state authority, accountability, the fight against impunity, and the consolidation of local dialogue mechanisms. We also discussed the importance of sustained and continuous efforts in addressing the threat posed by the ADF, which remains one of our top priorities, ” he added. Praising the strong collaboration with provincial authorities, Mr. Swan expressed satisfaction with the shared commitment and his intention to continue engaging with different segments of the population, including women, youth, and displaced communities, during his stay in Bunia. “ These meetings are essential to better align our support with the realities experienced by the population, ” he stressed. James Swan’s visit to Ituri continues on Wednesday, April 22, and Thursday, April 23, 2026, with the aim of listening and gaining a deeper understanding of local realities. It will conclude with a meeting with media professionals in Bunia.

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