PF-ICGLR Delegation in Uganda Fostering Peace in Eastern DRC

A PF-ICGLR delegation has commenced a peace mission in Uganda aimed at addressing security issues in the Eastern DRC. Led by Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, the delegation received support from Speaker Anita Among, who stressed the necessity of African-led solutions. The findings will inform higher-level discussions on regional stability and development.

A delegation from the Forum of Parliamentarians in the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (PF-ICGLR) has arrived in Uganda to conduct a fact-finding mission focused on peace and security within the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The delegation is led by the Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia and President of PF-ICGLR, Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, who is set to meet with President Yoweri Museveni during the visit.

On March 10, 2025, Speaker Anita Among welcomed the delegation, praising their dedication to fostering regional peace. She reiterated Uganda’s support for African-led resolutions to the continent’s challenges. Among stated, “As Africans, we have always agreed that African problems can only be solved locally.”

She further emphasized the significance of peace in the DRC, as it is vital for stability across the Great Lakes Region. Among remarked on the importance of collaborative efforts between heads of state in achieving peace, asserting that, “It begins with us.”

Butete detailed the visit’s objectives, highlighting the role of regional leadership in resolving conflicts. She indicated that this is the fourth phase focused on peace and security in the Eastern DRC, stating, “Peace is a precursor to development.”

Butete stressed the importance of African nations taking charge of their security, suggesting that unnecessary external interventions should be avoided. She stated, “We don’t want to invite strangers to come and intervene in our affairs when we have responsible leaders in our presence.”

The findings from this delegation will be presented at the PF-ICGLR plenary in April and are expected to lead to higher-level discussions. Butete, who is nearing the end of her term as President of the forum, highlighted the necessity of demonstrating tangible progress before the leadership transition to Angola takes place.

The visit of the PF-ICGLR delegation to Uganda underscores the collective effort towards enhancing regional peace and security in the Eastern DRC. With strong sentiments expressed by Ugandan officials regarding local solutions to African issues, emphasis was placed on the leadership’s role in fostering peace. The findings from this mission are anticipated to contribute to ongoing discussions aimed at advancing stability and development within the region.

Original Source: www.zawya.com