A delegation from the PF-ICGLR, led by Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, is on a mission in Uganda focused on peace in the DRC. They met with Ugandan leaders, including Speaker Anita Among, who emphasized the importance of African-led solutions to regional conflicts. The delegation aims to demonstrate regional leadership in securing peace and stability ahead of their upcoming plenary in April.
A delegation from the Forum of Parliamentarians in the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (PF-ICGLR) is currently in Uganda on a fact-finding mission focused on fostering peace and security in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The group, led by Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia and PF-ICGLR President, is scheduled to meet with President Yoweri Museveni to discuss their initiatives.
During a reception on March 10, 2025, Speaker Anita Among welcomed the delegation, commending their dedication to regional peace. She reiterated Uganda’s commitment to finding African-led solutions to challenges faced on the continent. Among stated, “As Africans, we have always agreed that African problems can only be solved locally,” emphasizing the significance of their peace-seeking endeavors.
Among stressed that stability in the DRC is critical for the overall security of the Great Lakes Region. She expressed a desire to see peace achieved through collaborative efforts among African leaders, asserting, “Peace can only be achieved with our heads of state and with us as Africans. It begins with us.” Moreover, she confirmed Uganda’s consistent participation in the forum and adherence to its financial obligations.
Butete outlined the goals of the mission, highlighting the essential role of regional leadership in conflict resolution, stating, “This is the fourth phase on issues relating to peace and security in the Eastern DRC.” She asserted that peace is fundamental for interactions and regional integration, positioning it as a prerequisite for development.
She emphasized the necessity for African nations to be proactive in addressing their security concerns, discouraging reliance on external help. Butete remarked, “We don’t want to invite strangers to come and intervene in our affairs when we have responsible leaders in our presence who can take charge.”
The findings from this delegation will be submitted to the PF-ICGLR plenary in April, with expectations for elevated discussions following. Butete, nearing the end of her term as President, highlighted the urgency of making meaningful progress before leadership transitions to Angola. Uganda’s role as a key advocate for home-grown solutions to peace and security in the region remains significant.
In summary, the PF-ICGLR delegation’s visit to Uganda underscores a collective commitment to resolving peace and security issues in the DRC through regional leadership. The dialogue facilitated by Ugandan officials reinforces the belief that African nations should address their challenges independently. The upcoming presentation of findings aims to enhance collaborative efforts in achieving lasting peace and stability in the Great Lakes Region.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
