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The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), known as MONUSCO, is set to commence its withdrawal from the country’s eastern regions.

Bintou Keita, the head of the mission, announced on Saturday that approximately 2,000 UN troops would depart by the end of April, marking the first phase of the mission’s planned exit. This decision follows the UN Security Council’s approval in December, aligning with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi’s request in September to expedite the withdrawal.

In a press conference with Congolese government officials, Keita stated that the troop count would reduce to 11,500 after the withdrawal. The initial phase will see U.N. forces leaving South Kivu province and handing over 14 bases to Congolese security forces. Subsequent phases will involve withdrawal from North Kivu and Ituri provinces.

Christophe Lutundula, the Congolese Foreign Minister, emphasized at the conference in Kinshasa that the total withdrawal of UN forces is expected by December 31. Lutundula reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the country’s territorial integrity despite the departure of MONUSCO forces. He acknowledged the ongoing conflict in the eastern provinces, which has displaced over 7 million people.

More on MONUSCO:
MONUSCO, which took over from a previous UN operation in 2010, currently comprises about 13,500 troops. Their primary role has been to address the instability and violence in the eastern parts of the Central African nation, plagued by armed groups vying for control over territory and resources. However, the mission has faced criticism and discontent for allegedly failing to protect civilians from militia groups, leading to fatal protests.