UN appoints Beninese diplomat as deputy special representative in DRC

The United Nations has named Damien Mama, a senior official from Benin, as the new Deputy Special Representative for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Mama will serve under the UN’s Special Representative for the country, supporting efforts to coordinate humanitarian assistance, political dialogue and peace‑building initiatives across the conflict‑affected regions.

Mama previously held several senior positions within the UN system, including roles in peacekeeping and development programmes in Africa. His appointment was announced by the UN Office of the Special Envoy for the Great Lakes region, which oversees the organization’s engagement in the DRC’s eastern provinces.

The eastern part of the DRC has been plagued by armed conflict for decades, involving a mix of rebel groups, foreign militias and government forces. The violence has caused massive civilian displacement, widespread human rights abuses and a chronic humanitarian crisis, prompting a sustained UN peacekeeping presence known as MONUSCO.

The new deputy will be tasked with reinforcing the UN’s political strategy, facilitating negotiations between the Congolese government and armed groups, and improving coordination with humanitarian agencies. The role also includes overseeing the implementation of the 2023 peace agreement signed in Goma, which aims to reduce hostilities and promote security sector reforms.

UN officials said Mama’s experience in conflict resolution and his diplomatic background are expected to strengthen the organization’s capacity to address the complex challenges facing the DRC’s eastern provinces.