A PF-ICGLR delegation is in Uganda for a mission focused on peace in the Eastern DRC, led by Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete. The delegation’s efforts highlight Uganda’s commitment to regional cooperation and the importance of local solutions for African peace and security. Their findings will be presented in April, emphasizing the necessity of African leadership in resolving conflicts.
A delegation from the Forum of Parliamentarians in the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (PF-ICGLR) has arrived in Uganda to conduct a fact-finding mission regarding peace and security in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This delegation, led by Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, is set to meet with President Yoweri Museveni.
Upon welcoming the delegation, Speaker Anita Among praised their dedication to regional peace during a meeting at Parliament on March 10, 2025. She emphasized Uganda’s support for African-led solutions to the continent’s challenges, stating, “As Africans, we have always agreed that African problems can only be solved locally.”
Among also reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to regional peace, highlighting the significance of stability in the DRC for the Great Lakes Region. She remarked, “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. It begins with us.”
Butete elaborated on the objectives of the visit, pointing out that this was the fourth phase concerning peace and security in the Eastern DRC. She stated, “Without peace, we cannot interact, and even regional integration cannot prosper. Peace is a precursor to development.”
Butete also called for African nations to take control of their security matters, advocating against external intervention in local affairs. She said, “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 presented to the PF-ICGLR plenary in April, followed by discussions at higher levels. Butete highlighted the necessity of achieving tangible progress before transitioning leadership to Angola, maintaining Uganda’s crucial role in fostering regional peace and security through locally-sourced solutions.
The delegation from PF-ICGLR is engaged in vital discussions aimed at promoting peace in the Eastern DRC, with a strong focus on regional leadership and self-sufficiency in addressing security challenges. The collaborative efforts led by African nations evoke a collective responsibility to tackle local issues, facilitating stability and fostering development. Uganda’s active role underscores the commitment to regional peace and the belief that lasting solutions should arise from the continent itself.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
