Silenced for more than three years due to technical failures and lack of resources, the Radio of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), a strategic communication tool in the Greater North of North Kivu, is being restored to service. This operation is taking place through a Quick Impact Project (QIP) of MONUSCO's Strategic Communications and Public Information Section, amounting to $49,192 USD.

The laying of the foundation stone took place on December 20, 2025, at the General Shiko military camp in the Mambango neighborhood in Beni, in the presence of military officials, local authorities, and journalists.

Responding to rumors

In a region marked by armed group activism, the circulation of rumors and false information undermines the relationship between populations and defense and security forces. The prolonged absence of FARDC Radio has limited the army's ability to communicate with local communities.

"Radio remains today one of the most accessible, fastest, and closest tools to the population. In a context marked by a major security challenge, it is essential to have a reliable tool to inform in real time, educate, and raise awareness among the population so that they embrace the ongoing military operations in North Kivu province and its surroundings. The radio station whose construction we are launching is a symbol of pride for all and of the FARDC-MONUSCO partnership," declared Lieutenant Marc Elongo, spokesperson for Sokola 1 Grand Nord operations.

A communication framework between the army and communities

By broadcasting verified information, the radio should help improve exchanges between civilians and military personnel and limit the impact of information manipulation.

"I know this radio will further strengthen relations between civilians and military personnel, because even civilians will come here for their communications and other things. It will really strengthen civil-military relations," explained Jean de Dieu Kanzoka Siliwere, chief of the Pasisi neighborhood.

A project focused on community communication

For MONUSCO, this project is part of actions taken against disinformation and in favor of better information circulation.

"We work tirelessly to combat disinformation. With the construction of this radio, we will be able to strengthen civil-military relations to better deal with false information that often hinders our activities," indicated Michel Nolet, representative of the head of the MONUSCO sub-office in Beni.

The project includes the construction of a building comprising a technical room and a newsroom, equipped with essential materials, including computers, microphones, and a 1,000-watt transmitter. The station will be powered by solar energy, with a backup generator.

Representing the mayor of Beni, Senior Commissioner Donat Atwena emphasized that this support "demonstrates the international community's commitment alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo in peace consolidation efforts," expressing the hope that the radio will become "an instrument of responsible communication, promotion of peace, national unity, and the positive image of the army."

Beyond the infrastructure, this project is based on the partnership between MONUSCO and FARDC and concerns the restoration of FARDC Radio in the Greater North. The work is expected to last three months.