The newly appointed head of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), James Swan, arrived in the city of Goma on Friday as part of his ongoing tour of the country’s conflict-affected eastern region.

Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, has been under the control of the AFC/M23 rebel group for over a year, making Swan’s visit a significant step in efforts to assess and reinforce a fragile ceasefire between the group and the Congolese government.

According to officials, Swan’s visit is focused on monitoring compliance with the ceasefire agreement, as MONUSCO has been integrated into an expanded verification mechanism tasked with overseeing the implementation of the truce.

During his stay in Goma, Swan is expected to meet with leaders of the AFC/M23 movement, amid growing concerns over reported violations of the ceasefire in recent days.

The talks are seen as crucial in de-escalating tensions and restoring confidence between the warring parties.

“The priority is to ensure that all parties respect the ceasefire and create conditions that allow for dialogue and lasting peace,” Swan said.

Before arriving in Goma, Swan visited the cities of Bunia in Ituri province and Beni in North Kivu, where he held discussions with local authorities and security stakeholders on the broader security situation in eastern DR Congo.

Eastern DR Congo has long been plagued by armed conflict, with multiple armed groups operating in the region.

The international community, alongside MONUSCO, continues to push for peaceful solutions and the protection of civilians caught in the violence.

Swan’s visit to Goma signals renewed diplomatic engagement and underscores the urgency of stabilizing one of the region’s most volatile areas.

By Andrew shyaka