The PF-ICGLR delegation, led by Zambian Speaker Nelly Mutti Butete, is in Uganda to discuss peace in the DRC. Speaker Anita Among reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to regional solutions and emphasized the importance of local leadership in achieving peace. The findings from this mission will contribute to ongoing discussions on regional security.
A delegation from the Forum of Parliamentarians in the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (PF-ICGLR) is currently visiting Uganda to assess peace and security measures in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Spearheaded by the Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti Butete, the delegation will engage with President Yoweri Museveni among others during their fact-finding mission.
During the delegation’s reception on March 10, 2025, Speaker Anita Among acknowledged their dedication to promoting regional peace and reiterated Uganda’s commitment to facilitating African-led solutions to continental issues. “As Africans, we have always agreed that African problems can only be solved locally. This pursuit is a very good initiative and I applaud you for that,” she stated.
Among stressed the critical nature of peace in DRC for achieving stability throughout the Great Lakes Region, noting that effective solutions must involve regional leadership and cooperation. She remarked, “Problem-solving is why they are here. We want to see how best peace can be created in the DRC, and it begins with us”.
Butete outlined the purpose of the visit as part of a broader effort to address peace and security concerns, noting that it is the fourth phase of ongoing discussions. She emphasized that, “without peace, we cannot interact, and even regional integration cannot prosper. Peace is a precursor to development.”
The delegation highlighted the necessity for African nations to take control over their own security issues while avoiding undue foreign intervention. Butete asserted, “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 and guide citizens to ensure peace and stability in the region.”
The findings from the delegation will be presented to the PF-ICGLR plenary in April and subsequently discussed in greater depth at higher levels. As Butete prepares to conclude her term as President of the forum, she underlined the need for tangible advancements before leadership transitions to Angola. Uganda remains a pivotal participant in regional peace initiatives, advocating for solutions generated within the continent.
In conclusion, the visit of the PF-ICGLR delegation to Uganda signifies a concerted effort toward fostering stability and peace in the DRC and the surrounding Great Lakes Region. The collaboration emphasizes the belief in African-led solutions while highlighting the importance of regional leaders and intra-continental dialogue. Uganda’s commitment plays a vital role in addressing security concerns, advocating for homegrown resolutions in a bid to foster long-lasting peace and development.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
