The Ugandan Head of State, Yoweri Museveni, welcomed on Monday at his Kisozi farm the Congolese special envoy, Floribert Anzuluni Isiloketshi. The discussions centered on the escalating security crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and regional efforts to restore peace and stability in the Great Lakes area. This meeting reflects ongoing diplomatic consultations between Kinshasa and Kampala to address persistent security threats in eastern DRC.
Key issues discussed during the high-level meeting
In a statement on X, President Museveni highlighted the significance of the talks, emphasizing shared priorities. He stated, « This morning, at my Kisozi farm, I received Mr. Floribert Anzuluni Isiloketshi, special envoy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We discussed matters of mutual interest, particularly the security situation in eastern DRC. Peace and stability in our region are vital to the prosperity of our people, and we will continue collaborating with regional partners to address the challenges facing eastern Congo. »
Floribert Anzuluni, representing President Félix Tshisekedi, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and acknowledged Uganda’s commitment to peace in eastern DRC. He remarked, « I thank President Yoweri Museveni for the warm welcome extended to our delegation. I commend his dedication to restoring peace in eastern DRC. »
Ongoing security challenges in eastern DRC
Eastern DRC, particularly North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces, remains plagued by persistent insecurity. The actions of the M23 rebel group and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) continue to displace civilians and hinder government-led stabilization efforts. These threats underscore the urgency of coordinated regional responses.
As the special envoy of President Félix Tshisekedi, Floribert Anzuluni’s mission is to strengthen political and diplomatic cooperation with regional leaders. His role includes advocating for initiatives that promote lasting peace and stability in eastern DRC.
Military and economic cooperation between DRC and Uganda
The collaboration between Kinshasa and Kampala plays a pivotal role in regional security strategies. Since November 2021, the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and Uganda’s People’s Defence Force (UPDF) have jointly conducted Operation Shujaa to neutralize ADF fighters responsible for attacks on civilians in eastern DRC. This military partnership has been renewed multiple times and remains a cornerstone in combating armed groups.
Beyond security, the two nations are also advancing economic ties, particularly through cross-border road infrastructure projects. These initiatives aim to boost trade and support regional integration, fostering long-term stability.
By reaffirming their commitment to regional cooperation, both DRC and Uganda demonstrate their resolve to adopt a unified approach in tackling the security challenges threatening eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes region.
