Ituri, 14 January 2011 – The Force Commander of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the DR Congo (MONUSCO), Lieutenant General Chander Prakash, respectively visited Bukiringi, Aveba, Kasenyi, Tchomia, Bogoro, Kabona and Boga in the district of Ituri from 14 to 16 January. The purpose of his visit was to meet and interact with local populations as well as with MONUSCO troops deployed in the region.

The visit was prompted by two major concerns: the security situation and the development of the area. About the security situation, the populations of Bukiringi, Aveba and Kabona called for a better collaboration between MONUSCO and the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) in order to put an end to the atrocities committed by militia groups in the region.

The populations of Bukiringi and Aveba took the opportunity to raise again allegations brought against MONUSCO back in November 2010 that Bangladeshi troops were providing militia members with weapons and ammunitions. Ever since, a section of the population has been doubtful of MONUSCO's impartiality in spite of the many attempts to explain its mandate and mission in the country.

With respect to the region's development, the populations voiced their wish to see more schools and health facilities built, as well as the road infrastructure rehabilitated. In response to these requests, General Prakash promised to advocate on their behalf for a greater involvement of UN agencies and other international organizations in Ituri. With regard to the security concerns, the Force Commander also promised to step up cooperation between MONUSCO Force under his command and the FARDC with a view to better combating insecurity in the region.

General Prakash was accompanied by DR Congo Ituri District Commissioner, Fredy Bosomba, the Commander of the area of operation, Colonel Fall Sikabwe, as well as MONUSCO's Head of the Ituri Office, M'hand Ladjouzi, and the Ituri Brigade Commander, General Hasan Ziaul.

Bilamekaso Tchagbele/MONUSCO