Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) convened their 8th Joint Permanent Commission meeting in Kinshasa from October 12th to 14th, 2023. The extensive discussions encompassed various pivotal topics that are of mutual benefit to both nations, including security and trade relations.
In a communique jointly released by the delegations, numerous critical issues were addressed, leading to several recommendations. Uganda’s delegation was led by the 1st Deputy Prime Minister, Rt Honorable Rebecca Kadaga, who also serves as the Minister of East African Affairs. The DRC delegation was headed by Honorable Antipasto Mbusa Nyamwisi, the Minister of State for Regional Integration, and comprised other esteemed dignitaries.
Minister Mbusa Nyamwisi, representing the DRC, vehemently condemned acts of terrorism that have resulted in the loss of countless lives, notably in the Beni territory of North Kivu and Mambasa. He also expressed strong disapproval of the heinous acts of mass murder, such as the burning of children in dormitories at Lubhiriha School in Mpondwe. Minister Mbusa underlined the imperative of fortifying the fraternal relations existing between the people of both states, as there is a resolute government commitment to revitalizing economic, commercial, and security bonds that connect the two nations.
He reaffirmed the dedication of His Excellency President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda to bilateral cooperation aimed at enhancing the living standards of their respective populations.
On the Ugandan side, Minister John Mulimba, who serves as Minister of East African Affairs and is responsible for Regional Cooperation, conveyed gratitude to the government of DR Congo for hosting this significant event. He also acknowledged the remarkable contributions of President Felix Tshisekedi during his term as the head of the African Union and in overseeing mechanisms for the ICGLR.
Minister Mulimba echoed President Museveni’s unwavering commitment to bolstering cooperation and sustainable development within the region. He emphasized the urgency of expediting the implementation of decisions made to fulfill the expectations of both heads of state.
During the session, both parties acknowledged that their shared geography, culture, and history impose collective obligations, particularly in the ongoing dialogue in the interest of their respective populations. Furthermore, they agreed to eliminate entry visa fees on a reciprocal basis, facilitating the free movement of people. The meeting also involved in-depth discussions on military, security cooperation, border demarcation, and neutralization of hostile armed groups, among other pertinent issues.
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