Uganda and DRC strengthen ties, lawmakers discuss regional security

In a significant move to deepen bilateral relations and address pressing regional issues, Uganda’s Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, hosted a delegation of Members of Parliament from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for a comprehensive discussion focused on enhancing security, economic collaboration, and regional stability.

The meeting, held at Uganda’s Parliament building, is seen as a vital step in boosting cooperation between the two neighboring countries, both of which play critical roles in East-Central Africa.

The meeting came at a time when both Uganda and the DRC face shared challenges, particularly in terms of security and economic development. The DRC has been grappling with prolonged conflicts in its eastern regions, which have had severe repercussions on both domestic stability and neighboring countries. The unrest has disrupted trade routes, displaced communities, and strained cross-border relations, highlighting the urgent need for a collaborative approach to regional peace and security.

Uganda, as a strategic neighbor, has a vested interest in ensuring stability in the DRC. Any conflict spillover threatens not only the security of border communities but also the broader economic integration efforts under regional bodies like the East African Community (EAC). Recognizing these shared interests, the meeting sought to reinforce the commitment of both nations to work together in tackling common challenges.

Focus on Parliamentary Diplomacy

A key theme of the discussions was the role of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering peace and development. Speaker Anita Among underscored the importance of lawmakers from both Uganda and the DRC in spearheading initiatives aimed at enhancing bilateral ties. She highlighted that beyond the traditional roles of legislation and oversight, Parliament can serve as a powerful platform for dialogue and collaboration between nations.

“Parliamentarians are not just lawmakers; they are representatives of the people’s interests and voices,” Speaker Among noted. “It is our duty to ensure that we use our positions to advocate for peace, security, and prosperity, not just within our borders but across the region.”

Her remarks were echoed by Lambert Mende, the head of the DRC delegation, who emphasized the potential of parliamentary diplomacy in resolving conflicts and promoting mutual understanding. Mende expressed confidence in the strong bilateral relations between the two countries, pointing out that the current political and economic challenges require a united front from both nations’ legislative bodies.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC, an issue that has long plagued the region. For decades, the area has been a hotspot of violence, driven by a complex mix of ethnic tensions, political instability, and competition over natural resources. The conflict has resulted in severe humanitarian crises, with thousands of people displaced and neighboring communities, including those in Uganda, bearing the brunt of the instability.

Lambert Mende highlighted the urgent need for a collective approach to address the conflict, stressing that it is not just a DRC problem but a regional one that requires joint efforts. “The violence in eastern DRC has far-reaching effects, impacting trade, stability, and the livelihoods of millions,” Mende stated. “It is imperative that we, as lawmakers, take the initiative to find lasting solutions that will bring peace and stability to our region.”

Mende’s call for action resonated with the Ugandan counterparts, who acknowledged the shared responsibility in addressing the crisis. Both delegations agreed on the need for enhanced security cooperation, intelligence sharing, and coordinated efforts to combat armed groups that continue to destabilize the region.

Beyond security concerns, the meeting also focused on ways to boost economic ties between Uganda and the DRC. The two countries share a long border and have significant trade relations, with Uganda being one of the DRC’s major trading partners. However, ongoing instability has hindered trade flows, affecting economic growth in both countries.

Speaker Among emphasized that peace and economic development are interlinked, noting that stability is a prerequisite for economic growth. She called for greater efforts to facilitate cross-border trade, improve infrastructure, and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

“By improving trade relations and supporting businesses, we can create jobs and uplift the livelihoods of our people. This is a critical step towards achieving sustainable development,” she said.

Mende added that boosting economic ties would not only benefit both nations but also contribute to the broader goals of regional integration under frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the East African Community. He advocated for Parliament to play a more active role in creating policies that encourage investment, trade, and development projects that can bridge the gap between the two economies.

Commitment to Strengthening Partnership

The meeting was attended by key figures from both countries, including Uganda’s Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang, and Clerk to Parliament, Adolf Mwesige. Their presence underscored the high level of commitment from both sides to strengthen their partnership and address shared challenges.

The discussions culminated in a pledge to continue working closely on issues of mutual concern, with a focus on enhancing regional trade, improving security, and deepening cooperation. Both parties expressed optimism about the future of Uganda-DRC relations, highlighting the potential for significant progress if the two nations remain committed to their shared goals.

A Vision for a Peaceful and Prosperous Future

As the meeting concluded, there was a shared sense of optimism and determination to build on the progress made. The diplomatic efforts showcased the potential for a more integrated and prosperous region, with both Uganda and the DRC playing pivotal roles. By focusing on parliamentary diplomacy and collaborative action, the two nations are setting a positive example for the rest of the region, demonstrating that cooperation and dialogue are key to addressing even the most complex challenges.

The path ahead may be challenging, but the commitment shown by both Uganda and the DRC provides hope for a future marked by peace, stability, and economic growth. For the people of both countries, the meeting offers a glimpse of a brighter future, where cooperation and shared vision pave the way for lasting prosperity.