UN extends peacekeeping mission in Democratic Republic of Congo

By Godfrey Olukya

KAMPALA, Uganda (AA) - The UN has extended the mandate of its peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) for another year, according to local reports.

The Security Council has asked the peacekeepers to concentrate on the northeast of the country and boost joint operations with the Congolese military, UN Radio reported on the decision that went into effect on Monday.

Drafted by France, the resolution was adopted unanimously by all 15 members of the Security Council, extending MONUSCO until Dec. 20 next year with a maximum of 14,160 troops and 2,001 police officers.

MONUSCO has played a major role in maintaining security in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where numerous militias and rebel groups are active, attacking villages and looting property.

The mission was established by the UN Security Council in 1999 to monitor peace in the country.