The acting head of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), MONUSCO, arrived in Goma on Thursday as residents expressed deep scepticism about prospects for lasting peace in the eastern city.
Vivian van de Perre’s visit coincides with MONUSCO’s stated support for a durable ceasefire between the Congolese army and the AFC/M23 rebel coalition, which seized Goma in early 2022. However, local sentiment suggests profound disillusionment with both the peace process and the UN mission’s role.
Resident David Chimuda described MONUSCO as a “distraction,” quoting a widely held view that repeated ceasefire announcements have yielded no tangible results. “There have been so many ceasefires announced over a long period, yet they do nothing at all,” he said.
This perspective was reinforced by Pascal Bahati, who noted the cyclical nature of the conflict. “Twenty years ago there was war, and today the war is still here,” Bahati said, adding that many believe the peacekeeping mission has been ineffective. “There is really no difference, MONUSCO does nothing at all.”
Their comments highlight a stark gap between diplomatic efforts and civilian experience. A recent U.S.-brokered agreement between the DRC and Rwanda, along with ongoing negotiations with the M23, has yet to translate into a cessation of hostilities, with fighting continuing on several front lines.
The prolonged conflict has precipitated one of the world’s most severe humanitarian emergencies. The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) reports over 7 million people are internally displaced within the DRC, with North Kivu province, where Goma is located, bearing a significant portion of the burden.
The arrival of the mission’s acting chief underscores ongoing international engagement. However, the prevailing attitude among Goma’s residents suggests that trust in external efforts—whether from the UN or bilateral diplomacy—remains critically low, a sentiment that poses a significant challenge to any sustainable resolution.
