Women, members of civil society organizations in North Kivu, are expressing concern over the ongoing deterioration of the security and humanitarian situation and hope that the mandate of the new head of MONUSCO will contribute to restoring peace in their province.
In a letter addressed to the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Head of MONUSCO, Mr. James Swan, on the sidelines of his visit to Goma last week, civil society representatives welcomed the presence and efforts of the Mission in a context marked by continued violence against civilian populations.
They urge MONUSCO to intensify its actions in order to deliver concrete, visible, and measurable results, particularly in terms of protection of civilians and ensuring that parties to the conflict respect their commitments.
These women recall that the events of January 2025, notably the take-over of Goma by the AFC/M23, have profoundly affected the living conditions of the population. According to them, this situation has led to increased hardship for many families, worsened by disruptions to essential services, including the closure of Goma airport and banking institutions.
They describe a difficult daily reality marked by fear, forced displacement, loss of livelihoods, as well as violence—particularly conflict-related sexual violence and gender-based violence.
The women also emphasize that in the territories of Rutshuru, Masisi, Nyiragongo, and Walikale, women and girls remain especially exposed to the consequences of insecurity, with reduced space for public expression due to threats and violence.
Need for concrete action for lasting peace
To ensure the return of peace in their province, women leaders from civil society in the Petit Nord call on the head of MONUSCO to mobilize all relevant stakeholders.
They advocate for strengthened security, meaningful participation of women in decision-making processes, and concrete support for their peace initiatives, particularly through effective protection mechanisms, the provision of participation spaces, and necessary investments for their economic empowerment.
Furthermore, the signatories of the letter stress the importance of respecting the ceasefire, arguing that women should be involved in its monitoring, especially through information sharing on its implementation.
They also call for increased support to community mediators, whose role is essential in promoting social cohesion and dialogue, noting that social wounds and resentment remain major obstacles to the peace process.
While congratulating James Swan on his appointment, they finally express hope that his mandate will mark a decisive turning point for the people of North Kivu and contribute to achieving lasting peace in the province.
