ASSESSMENT OF UNITED NATIONS ORGANIZATION AND PEACEKEEPING MISSION IN AFRICA: STUDY OF THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

The United Nations (UN) has played a crucial role in peacekeeping and conflict resolution across Africa, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) being one of its most significant engagements. However, despite its continued effort in peacekeeping missions, the role of the United Nations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has not been well documented. As a result, this study seeks to critically examine the relationship between the United Nations and peace keeping missions in Africa. Also, to examine the role of the United Nations in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In addition, this study investigates the causes of civil altercation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This study sampled several available theories by different authors including the Conflict Resolution Theory by John Burton in the late 1960s and early 1970s, his Conflict Resolution Theory is a relevant tool for the analysis of inter-state regional phenomenon. As well as the Liberalism Institutionalism Theory by Keohane and Nye, (1977), which focuses on the role of international organizations like the United Nations in promoting cooperation and dealing with collective problems among states. In summary, it was stated that, despite numerous peace agreements and the presence of the UN's largest peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, sustainable peace remains elusive. Cycles of demobilization and reintegration frequently fail as former combatants face limited economic opportunities and political grievances remain unaddressed. Findings also indicate that, while the mission has contributed to reducing large-scale violence, persistent challenges hinder sustainable peace. This study concludes that, it is essential to strengthen collaboration between UN peacekeeping forces and local security institutions to ensure a more sustainable approach to security sector reform. Additionally, the UN should prioritize community engagement initiatives that empower local populations and foster trust between peacekeepers and civilians, thereby reducing incidents of sexual abuse and increasing accountability. This study also recommends that, the mission should encourage more French speaking countries to take part in peacekeeping operations in eastern Congo, and that the government should develop a sound disarmament strategy that includes job training and capacity building for former combatants, as well as making sure that the people must always inform the UN mission on rebel movements in their respective areas..