Tensions between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have intensified following Kinshasa’s summons of Uganda’s charge d’affaires, Matata Twaha Magara. This move comes amid allegations that Uganda has been providing support to the M23 rebels, a claim detailed in a recent UN Security Council report.
The report accuses Ugandan military and intelligence officials of offering “active support” to the M23 group, which has captured significant territory in North Kivu province since late 2021.
Ugandan Envoy Responds
In a meeting with Congolese Deputy Foreign Minister Gracia Yamba Kazadi on Friday, Magara denied Uganda’s involvement with the rebels. “Our position has been clear that in the East African community, we need to work together to eliminate all the negative forces disturbing us,” Magara stated. He reiterated Uganda’s commitment to regional stability, highlighting the joint operations with Congolese forces against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group linked to the Islamic State.
The ADF, which has been active in eastern DRC for decades, has caused significant civilian suffering. Magara assured Kazadi that Uganda’s bilateral relations with the DRC remain cordial and expressed that Uganda is awaiting official communication from the UN to formally address the allegations.
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Uganda Criticizes UN Report
Magara also criticized the UN report, suggesting that countries implicated in such reports should have the opportunity to respond before the information is made public. “The UN should first provide the concerned countries with the report so they can address the accusations,” he said.
The UN report, released on July 8, claims that 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are fighting alongside M23 rebels in the DRC’s mineral-rich eastern region, leading to widespread displacement. It also alleges that Rwanda has “de facto control” over M23 operations, an accusation that Kigali has rejected.
As the situation unfolds, both Uganda and Rwanda face increasing scrutiny regarding their alleged involvement in the DRC conflict. The international community is closely monitoring how these regional tensions will affect stability and the humanitarian situation in the area.
