Uganda, DRC Strengthen Ties with Discussions on Fishermen's Arrests, Security, and Trade

Uganda's State Minister of Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation, Honorable John Mulimba, held significant talks with Her Excellency Ester Kazadi, Senior Minister and Minister-Delegate in charge of International Cooperation and Francophony of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), to address the urgent issue of arrested Ugandan fishermen.

The discussions led to the proposal of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at initiating bilateral sessions to resolve the ongoing tensions on Lakes Albert and Edward.

The meeting between Hon. Mulimba and Senior Minister Kazadi is part of broader efforts to enhance regional cooperation and address security concerns affecting the border areas shared by Uganda and the DRC.

Following this engagement, Hon. Mulimba met with Didier Mazenga Makanzu, DRC's Minister of Regional Integration, where both ministers reiterated the importance of resolving conflicts and insecurity in the lake regions.

The two officials emphasized the need for joint efforts to ensure peace and stability, which are crucial for the livelihoods of communities dependent on these water bodies.

In addition to diplomatic discussions, Hon. Mulimba, accompanied by members of the Ugandan embassy, visited a Ugandan-owned company in the DRC that specializes in exporting food supplies from Uganda.

The visit highlighted the growing economic ties between the two nations, with the company playing a key role in promoting Ugandan products in the Congolese market.

Hon. Mulimba, alongside the Ugandan ambassador to DRC, commended the company’s management and staff for their contributions to bilateral trade and urged other Ugandan businesses to explore opportunities in the DRC.

They encouraged Ugandan suppliers to consider expanding their operations in the DRC, underscoring the potential for greater economic collaboration between the neighboring countries.