By Patrice Katuma
Mahagi Territory, DR Congo – In a significant step towards fostering peace and security, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have signed a crucial agreement aimed at curbing cross-border crimes and boosting trade. The agreement, signed on Monday, May 5th in Mahagi territory, Eastern Ituri Province of the DRC, directly involves five Ugandan districts bordering the DRC: Nebbi, Pakwach, Buliisa, Zombo, and Hoima.
The initiative seeks to address the persistent insecurity that plagues the porous borders between the two nations, which has long hindered legitimate trade and contributed to illegal activities. Delegates from both countries emphasized the urgent need for a collaborative approach to tackle issues such as the illegal entry of goods, theft of vehicles and livestock, and other criminal activities that disrupt the lives and livelihoods of border communities.
Leading the Ugandan delegation was the Deputy Director General for Special Operations in the Internal Security Organization (ISO), Gen Taban Amin, with the Member of Parliament for Elderly Persons in Northern Uganda, Ms. Catherine Akumu Mavejjina, serving as his deputy.
This agreement follows a preliminary meeting held in Nebbi District on April 15th-16th, chaired by the Minister for State for ICT, Mr. Geoffrey Baluku. During that meeting, both parties committed to handling crimes collectively through a mutual peace agreement.
Col. Disanoa Laula, the Administrator of Military Affairs in Mahagi Territory, urged both parties to fully respect the terms of the agreement. “The signed peace agreement documents will be handed over to top leadership from both sides to harmonize and extend the cordial relationship and improve cross-border trade to enhance revenue of each country,” he stated.
Gen. Amin highlighted the specific benefits of the agreement, predicting that it will effectively halt cross-border theft of cars and livestock, among other crimes. A key component of the agreement is the establishment of joint border patrols by security personnel from both countries.
Robert Abak, the Resident District Commissioner of Nebbi, underscored the deep cultural and social ties that bind the communities on either side of the border. “We have a lot in common because we have the same language and have inter-married,” he said. “We shouldn’t be fighting among ourselves because we all need peace to enable us conduct business.”
Mr. Abak further emphasized the timeliness of the agreement, asserting that both countries are heavily reliant on each other for trade and that promoting peace is essential for the well-being of their citizens and the continued growth of their economies. This agreement represents a significant step towards a more secure and prosperous future for the border communities of Uganda and the DRC.
