By Mulengera Reporters
Members of Uganda’s Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee have shared insights with visiting lawmakers from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on strategies to foster peace and security. The advice focused on mobilizing citizens to reject alliances with armed groups and to embrace peaceful initiatives.
During a meeting held at Uganda’s Parliament on Thursday 14th November 2024, Catherine Lamwaka, the Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs Committee, shared that the DRC delegation urged for regular collaborative meetings between lawmakers from both countries. This engagement, they suggested, would strengthen diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region.
“In their appeal to us as a committee, they expressed willingness to receive guidance on fostering peace in the DRC. One proposal highlighted the role of DRC MPs in educating communities on the importance of peace and unity. This involves helping citizens understand that, while the armed forces work to ensure security, civilians also have roles in supporting peace rather than benefiting from conflict,” Lamwaka explained.
She further noted the importance of reducing civilian collaboration with war-related networks, as these often perpetuate violence. “The DRC lawmakers emphasized the need for MPs to lead community sensitization efforts, working with other stakeholders to build a sustainable peace,” she added.
Lamwaka, also a representative of Omoro District, revealed that the DRC team proposed regular joint meetings between legislators from the two nations to address shared challenges in peacebuilding and trade. “Given the unique issues they face, such as conflict and trade barriers, they suggested a platform for consistent dialogue. I endorsed this on behalf of our committee, pending guidance from the Speaker’s Office,” Lamwaka said.
She also highlighted the unresolved issue of DRC’s visa requirements for Ugandan travelers, contrasting it with Uganda’s visa-free policy for Congolese nationals. “Congolese can travel to Uganda visa-free, yet Ugandans still require visas for entry to the DRC. Although agreements to allow free movement of people and goods were previously made, this meeting offered us a chance to follow up on the status of these commitments,” she noted.
The Foreign Affairs Committee expressed appreciation for Uganda’s military efforts, particularly those of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), in supporting peace in the DRC. Lamwaka shared, “The DRC delegates acknowledged the support of the Ugandan government and the UPDF in their peace efforts, even as they continue working toward their ultimate goal of stability in the region.” (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at [email protected]).
