In a significant development for regional cooperation, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have agreed on several practical resolutions to improve border security, enhance cross-border trade, and strengthen community relations. This new approach was formalized during a high-level consultation held on February 13, 2026, in Zombo District, Uganda, where leaders from both countries discussed pressing challenges and crafted resolutions to address them.
Uganda and DRC Agree on Key Measures to Boost Border Security
During the meeting at Paidha Cultural Centre, Uganda’s Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Festus Ayikobua and DRC’s Mahagi Territorial Administrator, Col. Jacques Lalua Disanoa, emphasized the shared cultural and historical ties between the two regions, which have long been central to the peace-building process along the border. Ayikobua praised the continued commitment of DRC’s leadership to maintaining peace, highlighting the significance of proactive engagement to prevent emerging security concerns.
Enhancing Cross-Border Trade and Community Relations
In addition to security issues, the leaders focused on improving cross-border trade, which has faced challenges due to land disputes and communal tensions. The regional police emphasized the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and reinforcing security agencies’ role in maintaining peace. Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) officials also addressed the issue of transparency in trade, reminding traders to follow official tax procedures, including the prohibition of cash payments.
Cultural Leaders Advocate for Peace and Unity
The meeting saw active participation from cultural leaders, particularly from the Alur Kingdom, who stressed the importance of fostering peace among communities on both sides of the border. Prince Lawrence Opar Angala, Prime Minister of the Alur Kingdom, underscored the critical role of traditional leaders in promoting cooperation and peace, pledging to convene chiefs from both Uganda and DRC to further strengthen bonds between the Alur communities.
Resolutions Adopted to Strengthen Cooperation
The leaders at the meeting adopted several resolutions aimed at enhancing border security and cooperation. These included:
- Establishing improved communication channels and protocols for handling cross-border incidents.
- Strengthening cross-border security committees and providing institutional support.
- Promoting transparency in trade and adhering to official tax channels.
- Encouraging joint efforts between security agencies and cultural leaders to address emerging community concerns.
- Working towards formal border demarcation to prevent land disputes.
A follow-up meeting will assess the progress of these resolutions, with a designated secretariat handling any unresolved issues.
Building on Previous Bilateral Efforts
These recent talks build on earlier engagements between the two countries, including the Joint Technical Committee (JTC) meeting in Goma in 2024, where both nations agreed on a roadmap to reaffirm their shared border. Although progress has been slow, these ongoing discussions highlight the importance of sustained, grassroots-driven cooperation to ensure regional stability and peaceful coexistence.
The new resolutions mark a positive step forward in strengthening Uganda-DRC relations, paving the way for enhanced security, better trade relations, and stronger community ties.
