Uganda’s Role in Regional Peace Initiatives for the DRC

The PF-ICGLR delegation is in Uganda conducting a mission on peace in the DRC, led by Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete. Speaker Anita Among welcomed the delegation, highlighting Uganda’s commitment to regional peace and the necessity of African-led solutions. The findings will inform future discussions, emphasizing local leadership in addressing security challenges.

A delegation from the Forum of Parliamentarians in the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (PF-ICGLR) has arrived in Uganda for a fact-finding mission concerning peace and security in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The delegation is led by Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia and President of PF-ICGLR, and will include a meeting with President Yoweri Museveni.

During a welcome address by Speaker Anita Among on March 10, 2025, she commended the delegation for their dedication to enhancing regional peace and reiterated Uganda’s support for African-led initiatives addressing the continent’s challenges. She noted that African problems ought to be resolved locally by local leaders.

Furthermore, Speaker Among emphasized the critical nature of peace in the DRC for overall stability in the Great Lakes Region, stating, “Problem-solving is why they are here. We want to see how best peace can be created in the DRC. It begins with us.”

Among also stated Uganda’s ongoing commitment to regional peace efforts, mentioning that the nation remains current in its financial obligations to the forum. President Butete then detailed the purpose of their visit, highlighting the necessity of regional leadership in resolving conflicts, asserting, “Without peace, we cannot interact, and even regional integration cannot prosper. Peace is a precursor to development.”

She stressed the importance of African nations managing their own security challenges, advocating for limited external intervention. “We don’t want to invite strangers to come and intervene in our affairs when we have responsible leaders present, who can take charge and guide citizens to ensure peace and stability in the region,” stated Butete.

The insights gathered by the delegation will be presented at the PF-ICGLR plenary in April, leading to further discussions at higher levels. As Butete nears the end of her term as President, she emphasized the need for significant advancements prior to the leadership transition to Angola, reinforcing Uganda’s role in advocating for indigenous solutions to Africa’s ongoing challenges.

The ongoing efforts by the PF-ICGLR delegation in Uganda demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering peace in the DRC, crucial for the stability of the Great Lakes Region. Through regional leadership and a focus on localized solutions, these initiatives aim to mitigate conflicts and promote development. As the discussions progress, the emphasis remains on strengthening indigenous governance to address security concerns effectively.

Original Source: www.zawya.com