Goma, 17 June 2013 - The Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Roger Meece, ended a two-day visit to Goma last week-end. This was his last visit to the regional capital of eastern DRC before his departure from the country after a three-year term as the Head of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). Mr. Meece was accompanied by the Force Commander, General Carlos Alberto dos Santos Cruz.

The Special Representative met with North Kivu provincial authorities, members of the press, NGO representatives, and the UN staff, including agencies. Mr. Meece said his visit was twofold: to evaluate the security situation in eastern DRC, and also to bid farewell at the end of his three years of service in the country as UN Special Representative.

Mr. Meece said he regretted his mission was not fully completed as insecurity still remains a big issue in the country, and especially in the east. In a town hall meeting, he congratulated MONUSCO staff for their dedication and sense of sacrifice.

The Special Representative is expected to leave the DRC in July.

Martha Biongo/ MONUSCO