In early March 2026, António Guterres appointed Swan as the Special Representative and head of MONUSCO in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, replacing Bintou Keita from Guinea, who left the position on November 30, 2025.
Upon his arrival in Kinshasa on April 7, Swan stated that military force alone cannot resolve the conflict in eastern DR Congo, emphasizing that dialogue is essential.
He said, “Progress will come through dialogue, regional involvement, and the implementation of signed agreements. Protecting civilians will remain MONUSCO’s top priority.”
The American diplomat added that, beyond civilian protection, MONUSCO will also support efforts to de-escalate fighting and establish conditions for lasting peace in eastern DR Congo.
Swan assumes this role at a time when MONUSCO has been given a special mandate to monitor the ceasefire in the Uvira territory, located in South Kivu province, following the Doha talks between the Congolese government and the AFC/M23 coalition.
The United Nations Security Council has reaffirmed that MONUSCO’s primary responsibilities include protecting civilians, preventing and repelling attacks on refugee camps, supporting disarmament and reintegration programs for former combatants, and monitoring compliance with arms embargo measures.
The operations of MONUSCO’s Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) have also been revised to strengthen its role in restoring peace and security in eastern DR Congo. The brigade will carry out offensive operations against armed groups, either independently or in coordination with Congolese forces.
The MONUSCO new chief, was later today welcomed at the headquarters in Kinshasa.
Photos by MONUSCO
