What does this mean? On the Surface the Government in Kinshasa is
not pleased with the Efforts of MONUC in the Eastern Part of the Country. Militias have set up their own Systems of Government.
MONUC itself cannot even receive its requested number of Peacekeepers authorized by the UN Security Council.
Just by Undertaking this task AFRICOM will be taking on its most ambitious project since
being formed. It has been attacked in the past for lack of focus and meaning.
Earlier this year the Command was vilified for its Logisitical Support of Operation Lightning
Thunder launched by FARDC along with the Ugandan Military and the Government of Southern Sudan. Did it learn anything from
this perceived fiasco?
Clearly the Obama Administration wants to increase its role in helping the DRC rebuild.
That is why there is an increase in US Funding in Rape Support.
But the Knives will come out as some people will say that there is no role for the US
Military in the DRC. There is a reason for their logic. Has anyone forgotten what happened in Mogadishu in 1993?
Those who want to do this will say we can Help the DRC reform its Military, Rein in the
Militias and stop the Abuse of Women.
Both Arguments are compelling......
