Quitting Congo

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Sociopolitical Documentary hosted by Sam Benstead, published by SBS broadcasted as part of SBS Dateline series in 2010 - English narration

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Quitting Congo by Sam Benstead On air: 7th November 2010

As UN peacekeepers prepare to leave their largest and most expensive mission - in the Democratic Republic of Congo - there are sharply differing views on how well-equipped that African nation is to fend for itself against violent militia groups there.

While the DRC says it no longer needs the United Nations, many fear the withdrawal of the 'Blue Helmets' will lead to an escalation of fighting that's already killed more than five million people.

Reporter Sam Benstead, from the UK-based ORTV, travelled to Congo to see for himself how well prepared the country is for the UN's departure.

His report raises the question: can Congo really stand alone or will it slide into a new humanitarian catastrophe?