Pakistani Peacekeepers Conclude 20-Year Mission in DRC

Pakistani peacekeepers, who have been an integral part of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for the past 20 years, are set to conclude their dedicated service in the Central African country. This decision is in line with the disengagement plan of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), which commenced earlier this year.

Since their deployment in 2003, over 100,000 Pakistani peacekeepers have served in South Kivu, with 31 brave individuals sacrificing their lives in the line of duty. This marks the highest number of Blue Helmets lost by Pakistan among the 46 peacekeeping missions across 29 countries where they have been deployed.

As part of the disengagement plan, the DRC government will increase its presence in the areas vacated by the UN Mission at its request. A ceremony was held to acknowledge the significant contributions of the Pakistani peacekeepers in advancing peace consolidation and security in South Kivu. Various dignitaries, including the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in the DRC and the Mission's Force Commander, paid tribute to the troops' professionalism and commitment.

Throughout their tenure, the Pakistani peacekeepers have played a crucial role in protecting civilians and maintaining peace and security in South Kivu. Notable achievements include thwarting armed groups' attempts to seize control of Uvira in 2017 and repelling an offensive in the Hauts Plateaux of Uvira in 2018, safeguarding over 120,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Their unwavering dedication has shielded millions of IDPs, many of whom sought refuge near their bases. The departure of the Pakistani peacekeepers signifies the end of an era marked by selfless service and unwavering commitment to peacekeeping efforts in the DRC.