The Minister for East African Community (EAC) Affairs and First Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of people.
The conflict in the DRC, primarily driven by the M23 rebel group, has led to widespread violence, with many civilians killed and several towns destroyed. Over the past week, a bomb explosion in the region claimed even more lives, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Minister Kadaga revealed that the DRC government has decided to involve regional forces to address the conflict. While the Ugandan People’s Defence Force (UPDF) has withdrawn, forces from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have stepped in to assist. However, the situation remains tense, with civilians caught in the crossfire.
Kadaga also highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts between Rwanda and the DRC to de-escalate the conflict. She emphasized the need for all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution and ensure the stability of the DRC.
The Minister acknowledged the financial challenges faced by EAC member states in addressing the crisis but reaffirmed the commitment to supporting the DRC. She also stressed the importance of adhering to the legal frameworks and protocols established by the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) to guide regional interventions.
Kadaga called for unity and collaboration among EAC member states to address the crisis effectively. She urged all stakeholders to prioritize peace and stability in the region, emphasizing that the ongoing conflict not only affects the DRC but also has broader implications for the entire East African Community.
