KAMPALA — Security and trade top the agenda as the ninth session of the Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo Joint Permanent Commission opened in Kampala today, with both nations moving to fast-track the implementation of strategic bilateral agreements.
The high-level meeting at Hotel Mestil builds on a February 2026 midterm review held in Mpondwe, which focused on streamlining economic and security cooperation, including the operationalization of visa waivers and simplified trade regimes.
Opening the three-day session, Ambassador John Leonard Mugerwa reaffirmed the longstanding friendship between the two nations, describing the relationship as one anchored in shared history and growing economic interdependence. He noted that bilateral trade continues to expand, driven by strong demand across both markets and a movement of labor that reflects the complementary nature of the two economies.
Security and defense remains a primary focus of the deliberations. Delegations are currently reviewing progress of Operation Shujaa, the joint military initiative aimed at neutralizing the Allied Democratic Forces and other terrorist groups in eastern DRC. These discussions also include technical border verification, particularly in the Busanza sector, to enhance coordination and reduce instability.
On trade and economic integration, officials are working to eliminate non-tariff barriers and harmonize cross-border operations. A revised memorandum of understanding on trade cooperation is set for finalization during this session, aiming to provide smoother market access for businesses in both countries.
Infrastructure and transport projects are also taking center stage. The Kasindi-Beni road project is now 60 percent complete, while the Beni-Butembo stretch stands at 6 percent. Both countries are also aligning technical studies and timelines for Standard Gauge Railway routes, following the March 2026 Uganda-Tanzania agreement designed to boost regional connectivity. In the aviation sector, the commission is reviewing the Bilateral Air Services Agreement and finalizing a search and rescue framework.
Energy and hydrocarbons cooperation features prominently as technical teams advance the development of the Nkenda-Beni-Bunia-Butembo high-voltage transmission line. Officials are also updating cooperation protocols for the hydrocarbons sector to support resource development.
The session is also addressing sensitive social and legal matters, including the management of nearly 500,000 Congolese refugees currently in Uganda. Other legal frameworks under review include judicial cooperation and the transfer of convicted persons to improve legal coordination between the neighbors.
Mugerwa called on delegates to maintain a spirit of trust and mutual responsibility while pursuing solutions to enhance regional peace. The technical officials’ discussions will shape high-level negotiations in the coming days, aimed at unlocking long-term stability and economic transformation across the Great Lakes region.
