A delegation from the Forum of Parliamentarians in the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (PF-ICGLR) is in Uganda as part of an investigative mission on stability and security in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The delegation, headed by the Speaker of Zambia’s National Assembly and President of PF-ICGLR, Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, is also scheduled to meet President Yoweri Museveni.
Welcoming the delegation to Uganda on Monday, 10 March 2025, at Parliament, Speaker Anita Among commended them for their dedication to regional stability and reaffirmed Uganda’s backing for African-driven resolutions to the continent’s challenges.
“As Africans, we have always concurred that African issues are best addressed locally. Your pursuit—traveling from one country to another, engaging with heads of state to establish the most effective path to peace—is commendable, and I appreciate you and your team for this effort,” she said.
Among reiterated Uganda’s unwavering commitment to regional stability, emphasizing that tranquility in the DRC is essential for maintaining peace across the Great Lakes Region.
“Their mission is to explore solutions. We seek to determine the most effective means of fostering peace in the DRC, and such harmony can only be attained through collaboration among our leaders and as Africans. It starts with us,” she stated.
Among also underscored Uganda’s active engagement in the forum, highlighting the country’s adherence to its financial responsibilities.
Butete outlined the objectives of the visit, stressing the significance of regional leadership in addressing conflicts.
“This is the fourth phase of discussions on matters concerning stability and security in Eastern DRC,” she said, adding, “Without peace, cooperation is impossible, and even regional integration cannot thrive. Stability is the foundation of development.”
She emphasized the necessity for African nations to take ownership of their security matters, minimizing external intervention whenever feasible.
“We do not wish to invite outsiders to interfere in our affairs when we have capable leaders among us who can assume responsibility and guide citizens towards ensuring peace and stability in the region,” Butete asserted.
The delegation’s findings will be presented to the PF-ICGLR plenary in April before being escalated to higher authorities for further deliberation.
As she nears the conclusion of her tenure as the forum’s President, Butete emphasized the importance of achieving substantial progress before leadership transitions to Angola.
Uganda remains a pivotal actor in regional stability and security initiatives, championing indigenous solutions to Africa’s challenges.
