Uganda & DR Congo Fast-Track Strategic Bilateral Deals in Kampala
Kampala — Building on the momentum of recent diplomatic engagements, the ninth session of the Uganda–Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) officially opened in Kampala today. The high-level meeting aims to fast-track the implementation of strategic bilateral agreements designed to bolster regional stability and economic growth.
The session follows a pivotal midterm review held in Mpondwe in February 2026, which focused on the operationalization of visa waivers and simplified trade regimes.
Security and Defense: Neutralizing Regional Threats
A primary focus of the deliberations is the ongoing security situation in eastern DRC. Delegations are currently reviewing the progress of Operation Shujaa, the joint military initiative aimed at neutralizing the ADF and other terrorist groups.
Additionally, technical teams are engaged in border verification exercises, with a specific focus on the Busanza sector to ensure territorial clarity and stability.
Trade and Economic Integration
To foster a more seamless economic environment, officials are working to eliminate non-tariff barriers and harmonize cross-border operations. A key outcome expected from this session is the finalization of a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on trade cooperation, intended to boost commercial exchange and formalize simplified trade regimes.
Infrastructure, Transport, and Energy
The commission provided status updates on several massive infrastructure projects intended to link the two economies:
- Roads: The Kasindi–Beni road project is now 60% complete, while the Beni–Butembo stretch stands at 6%.
- Railway: Both nations are aligning technical studies for Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) routes, following the March 2026 Uganda–Tanzania agreement to boost regional connectivity.
- Aviation: Review of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement and a new Search and Rescue framework are nearing completion.
- Energy: Technical teams are advancing the development of the Nkenda–Beni–Bunia–Butembo high-voltage transmission line.
Social and Legal Cooperation
Beyond infrastructure, the JPC is addressing critical humanitarian and legal issues. Discussions are currently focused on the management of the nearly 500,000 Congolese refugees residing in Uganda.
Delegates are also reviewing legal frameworks concerning judicial cooperation and the formal transfer of convicted persons between the two states.
This ninth session underscores the commitment of both nations to move beyond dialogue and into the rapid execution of projects that define the future of the Great Lakes region.
