President Museveni highlights regional cooperation for eastern DRC security

On Monday, July 13, Floribert Anzuluni, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Minister of Regional Integration, held a crucial meeting with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. The encounter took place at the Kisozi presidential farm, approximately 150 kilometers from Kampala. Minister Anzuluni delivered a specific message from President Félix Tshisekedi, amidst a period of heightened regional diplomatic engagement and ongoing conflict in the Eastern DRC, where Congolese government forces continue to battle the AFC/M23 rebellion, reportedly backed by Rwanda.

During their discussions, President Museveni reiterated Uganda’s unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration with the DRC and other regional allies. This commitment is aimed at effectively confronting the persistent security challenges that plague the eastern part of the country.

“We delved into matters of mutual concern, particularly the security situation in the Eastern DRC,” President Museveni posted on his X account. “Peace and stability across our region are paramount for the prosperity of our people. We will continue to work hand-in-hand with our regional partners to overcome the challenges facing eastern Congo.”

This latest meeting follows President Tshisekedi’s official visit to Uganda on May 11 and 12, 2026, which focused on strengthening the multi-sectoral partnership between Kinshasa and Kampala. During that visit, at the invitation of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the two heads of state engaged in a private discussion at State House Entebbe. They subsequently oversaw the signing ceremony for six memoranda of understanding. These pivotal documents were meticulously prepared and endorsed during the 9th session of the Permanent Joint Commission, which brought together 15 representatives from both the Congolese and Ugandan governments.

The signed agreements are designed to solidify economic integration between the two nations and foster an environment of shared prosperity, all while upholding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each. Key areas covered by these accords include the inter-state use of search and rescue (SAR) facilities and resources during peacetime, boosting bilateral trade, collaboration in public administration, information and communication technologies, export promotion, and the development of tourism.

Through these renewed commitments, Kinshasa aims to further strengthen its ties with Kampala within the Great Lakes region. This diplomatic push unfolds against a backdrop of strained relations with Kigali, which the DRC accuses of providing support to the AFC/M23 rebellion in its eastern territories. Furthermore, this diplomatic momentum occurs as peace initiatives launched in locations such as Washington and Doha are still struggling to yield tangible results on the ground, despite some progress reported within negotiation frameworks.