Kinshasa, 15 June 2011 - In a bid to better inform the Congolese public not only about joint actions but also about the activities inherent to each Agency, Fund, Programme or Mission of the United Nations system, the UN Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) and its partners within the UN system, today initiated what will henceforth be a regular joint weekly press conference.

It was widely acknowledged among the UN Family in the Democratic Republic of Congo that, the many components of the UN system, each with its own mandate, are all working towards the same goal which is the return of peace, security and stability in the country. Thus, the need to speak with one voice to the Congolese people became necessary.

The Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Fidèle Sarassoro, who is also the Humanitarian Coordinator and Resident Representative in the DRC, launched the initiative today in the presence of a dozen representatives of Agencies Funds and Programmes of the United Nations system.

"As you are all aware, MONUSCO and the 19 United Nations Programmes, Funds and Agencies present in the country, work hand in hand, in a coordinated and, increasingly integrated manner. As a Mission, and as Agencies and Programmes, we are now "united in action," Mr. Sarassoro told the journalists. "In order to clarify and improve the public perception of our work, we have decided to communicate as 'One UN' ", he said, and added, "So, starting today, the Press Conference of MONUSCO will simply be the Press Conference of the United Nations."

MONUSCO has hitherto organized and conducted its press conferences on its own, and has sometimes involved UN agencies on an ad hoc basis. The idea of extending this type of activity to other UN bodies had been in the works for a long time before its materialization today. These Press conferences will continue to be held every Wednesday.

Penangnini Toure / MONUSCO