The PF-ICGLR delegation, led by Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, is visiting Uganda to address peace in the Eastern DRC. Speaker Anita Among expressed support for their initiative, emphasizing African-led solutions to conflicts and the importance of peace for regional stability. The findings from this visit will inform future discussions at the PF-ICGLR plenary in April.
A delegation from the Forum of Parliamentarians in the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (PF-ICGLR) is on a mission in Uganda to address peace and security concerns in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The initiative is headed by the Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia and PF-ICGLR President, Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, who is scheduled to meet with President Yoweri Museveni.
During their reception at Parliament on March 10, 2025, Speaker Anita Among expressed gratitude for the delegation’s dedication to achieving regional peace and reiterated Uganda’s support for African-led solutions. “As Africans, we have always agreed that African problems can only be solved locally,” she commended the delegation’s efforts and highlighted the importance of their work in fostering dialogue among African nations.
Furthermore, Speaker Among emphasized that stability in the DRC is vital for the overall security of the Great Lakes Region. “Problem-solving is why they are here. We want to see how best peace can be created in the DRC and that peace can only be achieved with our heads of state and with us as Africans,” she stated.
Butete articulated the purpose of the visit, focusing on the critical role of regional leadership in conflict resolution. She indicated that this visit represents the fourth phase of discussions addressing peace and security in Eastern DRC, stressing, “without peace, we cannot interact, and even regional integration cannot prosper. Peace is a precursor to development.”
She also pointed out the necessity for African nations to lead in their own security matters, discouraging reliance on external interventions. “We don’t want to invite strangers to come and intervene in our affairs when we have responsible leaders in our presence,” Butete asserted.
The insights obtained by the delegation will be relayed to the PF-ICGLR plenary in April for further examination and action. As she approaches the end of her term as forum president, Butete emphasized the need to achieve substantial progress prior to the leadership transition to Angola.
Uganda continues to play a pivotal role in efforts toward regional peace and security by advocating for solutions grounded in local contexts that address Africa’s unique challenges.
In conclusion, the PF-ICGLR delegation’s mission in Uganda signifies a concerted effort towards fostering peace and stability in the DRC and the wider Great Lakes Region. The dialogue highlights the importance of regional leadership in addressing conflicts, with an emphasis on African nations taking charge of their own security concerns. The dedication expressed by Ugandan officials and the visiting delegation paves the way for continued collaboration focused on local and sustainable solutions to regional challenges.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
