United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed American diplomat James C. Swan as his Special Representative for the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).

Swan succeeds Bintou Keita of Guinea, whose tenure at the helm of the UN mission comes to an end after several years overseeing operations in the conflict-affected country.

In announcing the appointment, the Secretary-General thanked Keita for her service and contributions to MONUSCO.

“The Secretary-General expresses his appreciation to Ms. Bintou Keita for her dedication and the important services she rendered to MONUSCO,” the United Nations said in a statement.

Swan now assumes leadership of one of the UN’s largest and most complex peacekeeping missions at a time of persistent insecurity in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in North Kivu and surrounding provinces where armed groups remain active.

Keita’s departure comes amid continued criticism from various observers and local communities who have questioned MONUSCO’s effectiveness in fulfilling its core mandate of protecting civilians and maintaining peace, stability and security in eastern Congo.

Over the past two decades, the mission has faced recurring scrutiny and international criticism over its ability to contain violence and stabilize the region despite its extensive resources and long-standing presence.

Analysts say Swan will inherit a mission under pressure to demonstrate tangible results while navigating complex regional dynamics and growing skepticism among parts of the Congolese population about the role of international peacekeeping forces.

MONUSCO has in recent years begun a gradual reconfiguration and drawdown in some areas while continuing to support stabilization efforts and coordination with Congolese authorities and regional partners.