A delegation from the Forum of Parliamentarians of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (PF-ICGLR) is currently in Uganda as part of a fact-finding mission aimed at addressing peace and security challenges in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The delegation, led by Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia and President of PF-ICGLR, is set to meet with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni to discuss the situation in the DRC and explore regional solutions for peace.
Upon welcoming the delegation to Uganda on Monday, 10 March 2025, Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament, Anita Among, praised the forum for its unwavering dedication to regional peace. She emphasized Uganda's strong support for African-led solutions to the continent's challenges. “As Africans, we have always agreed that African problems must be solved locally. This initiative, where you are meeting heads of state to explore the best path to peace, is commendable,” said Among.
Among also reaffirmed Uganda's commitment to regional peace, emphasizing that stability in the DRC is vital for the overall security of the Great Lakes Region. “Peace in the DRC is essential for the stability of the region, and this peace must come from African leaders. It begins with us,” she added.
Further, Among highlighted Uganda’s active role in the forum, noting that the country remains up to date on its financial obligations to the organization.
In her remarks, Butete outlined the objectives of the visit, emphasizing the importance of regional leadership in addressing conflicts. "This is the fourth phase of our efforts to focus on peace and security in Eastern DRC," she said. "Without peace, regional integration and development are impossible. Peace is the foundation for progress."
Butete also stressed the importance of African nations taking charge of their security issues and avoiding external interventions. “We must ensure that peace and stability in our region are handled by responsible African leaders, not outsiders," she said. "We have capable leaders here who can guide our people towards peace."
The delegation will compile its findings and present them to the PF-ICGLR plenary in April. The outcomes will then be taken up at higher levels for further discussion. Butete, who is nearing the end of her term as President of the forum, emphasized the need for tangible progress before leadership responsibilities are handed over to Angola.
Uganda continues to play a pivotal role in regional peace and security initiatives, advocating for African-led solutions to Africa's challenges.
Post a Comment