By
Wanzala Robert
Members of Uganda’s Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee today hosted a delegation from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), advising them on strategies to enhance peace and security in their nation through public sensitization campaigns urging citizens to reject collaboration with armed groups and to support peace initiatives.
During the meeting at Uganda’s Parliament, Catherine Lamwaka, Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs Committee, emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration between the two countries to foster regional stability. Speaking to journalists, Lamwaka, who also represents Omoro District Women’s Representative, highlighted the DRC delegation’s proposal for ongoing joint meetings between the nations’ parliamentary representatives. “In their proposal to us, because of the unique challenges they are having as a country regarding peace and trade, we could have a platform where we could regularly meet as Parliamentarians and engage on such issues,” she said. Lamwaka added that the proposal, which she approved on behalf of the committee, would still require further discussions and guidance from the Office of the Speaker.
The discussion also tackled existing challenges in cross-border movement, specifically the continued visa requirements imposed by DRC on Ugandan citizens. Lamwaka underscored that Uganda had previously waived visas for Congolese visitors, expressing hope that DRC would reciprocate to ease movement for both people and goods. “For Congolese to come to Uganda, they don’t need a visa, but for our citizens to go to DRC, they do. These are matters that had been previously resolved, and this provided us an opportunity to do follow-up on the commitments made by the two states,” Lamwaka stated.
Kyadondo East MP and Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Nkunyingi Muwada, raised additional concerns about the lack of reciprocal visa exemptions and noted issues such as the delayed accreditation of Uganda’s ambassador to DRC, now pending for four years. Muwada also voiced worries about the detention of Ugandans in DRC, which he attributed to possible retaliatory actions over alleged illegal detention of Congolese citizens in Uganda. He urged both nations to prioritize transparency and improve treatment of detained nationals to avoid escalating tensions.
Both parties also touched on their countries’ financial commitments to the East African Community (EAC), with Uganda and DRC currently in arrears. Muwada highlighted that Uganda owes $3 million, while DRC’s dues stand at $20 million. He emphasized that clearing these debts is essential to demonstrate their countries’ commitment to fostering integration and improving free trade within the region.
DRC legislators expressed the need for greater engagement with EAC member states, acknowledging doubts among Congolese citizens regarding the community’s intentions. The meeting concluded with mutual agreements to champion peace, security, and regional cooperation, and to work towards easing cross-border tensions for the broader benefit of East African citizens.
