The visit takes place amid rising tensions in eastern DRC, where both Uganda and Rwanda have conflicting security concerns.
The Ugandan People's Defence Forces (UPDF) have entered the Democratic Republic of Congo with the aim of combating violent extremist groups such as the ADF and CODECO militias. In collaboration with the DRC, Uganda initiated a joint military operation in November 2022 to target these militant organizations.
Rwanda is accused of supporting the M23 rebels, who have captured major towns in eastern Congo.
Ugandan forces are nearing regions controlled by M23, which raises security worries.
Brig-Gen Ronald Rwivanga, spokesman for Rwanda’s armed forces, stated: “He is here to deliver an impromptu speech at the RDF [Rwandan Defense Forces] Command and Staff College located in Nyakinama, Musanze.” General Muhoozi, who happens to be President Yoweri Museveni’s offspring, recently committed to signing “a defense agreement between Uganda and Rwanda.” He cautioned: “Any individual or group that assaults either of our nations would essentially declare war on both states.” Although Uganda refutes claims alleging covert support for M23, the United Nations asserts that it exploits Democratic Republic of Congo’s natural wealth.
Phil Clark, a professor of international politics at SOAS University of London, comments, "Uganda is taking advantage of the situation. While global attention remains fixed on M23 and Rwanda, Uganda has seized this opportunity to bolster its military presence in Ituri, thereby strengthening its influence over both politics and economics within the region." He further explains, "In doing so, Uganda seems to be emulating Rwanda’s strategy—citing an apparent ethnic threat as justification for expanding its strategic goals elsewhere in eastern Congo through forceful means. However, I do not believe that Uganda would openly endorse M23. Historically, Uganda has kept a certain level of detachment from M23, content with allowing the perception that Rwanda alone backs these insurgents, despite previous instances where M23 supported Ugandan interests in eastern Congo."
As M23 continues to advance and dismisses ceasefire attempts, Muhoozi’s trip indicates increasing collaboration between Uganda and Rwanda — marking a significant change from when their land border was reinstated in 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
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