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Gen Paul Muhanguzi talking to families of Congolese police officers
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Kanungu
In a significant act of regional cooperation and humanitarian commitment, the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) today successfully repatriated 140 Congolese nationals back to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The group, which included 98 police officers, 13 women, 27 children, and two civilian men (one of whom is disabled), had sought refuge in Uganda following the escalation of conflict in the Rutchuru region of North Kivu.
The Congolese nationals had fled to Uganda after the M23 rebel group seized control of several areas, including Kiwanza, Nyamirima, Buganza, Nyaruhanje, and Ishasha. For weeks, they found safety on the Ugandan side of the border, where they were treated in accordance with international humanitarian laws.
"This is not the first time we have received Congolese security officers on our side after skirmishes in their country. We have always treated them with the respect and care dictated by international law, offering them safe passage as a humanitarian act and in the spirit of Pan-Africanism," said Lt Col Tembo Sitende, the Ugandan battalion commander at the Ishasha Border in Kanungu District.
Congolese police officers board buses at Ishasha in Kanungu districts
The repatriation process was meticulously coordinated by Ugandan and Congolese officials. Lt Col Jacob Apunia, who led the verification exercise on 12 August 2024, confirmed the identity of the Congolese nationals and their accompanying military equipment, including 41 assault rifles, 55 loaded magazines, and other military gear. The handover took place at the Mpwonde-Kasindi border post in Kasese District, with both UPDF and FARDC (Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo) officials overseeing the process.
This act of goodwill underscores the strong diplomatic ties and mutual respect between Uganda and the DRC, demonstrating Uganda’s commitment to regional security and cooperation. The ongoing conflict in North Kivu continues to drive Congolese civilians across the border, seeking refuge from violence perpetrated by various armed groups. The Ugandan government, with the support of the UPDF, remains vigilant in its efforts to maintain border security and provide safe haven for those fleeing conflict.
As the conflict in the DRC persists, Uganda continues to stand as a beacon of safety and stability in the region
As the conflict in the DRC persists, Uganda continues to stand as a beacon of safety and stability in the regionMaj Kiconco Tabaro, the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division Public Information Officer, emphasized the importance of these efforts: "We are committed to upholding regional security and supporting our Congolese neighbors in times of crisis. Our surveillance and vigilance at the border remain strong to prevent any potential infiltration by negative elements."
As the conflict in the DRC persists, Uganda continues to stand as a beacon of safety and stability in the region, offering refuge and support to those in need while fostering peace and cooperation between neighboring countries.
Torch Media Africa
