According to authorities, the operation was prompted by intelligence gathered from residents in Nyamukino and Gotapwoyo villages, who had intercepted a suspicious white Ipsium vehicle, registration number UAP 032E. The vehicle was reportedly transporting 11 goats believed to have been stolen.

Police responded swiftly to the scene, leading to the arrest of 28-year-old Omony Dicken, a broker and resident of Pece-Laroo Division in Gulu City. During questioning, the suspect provided critical information that guided officers to the recovery of the weapon.

The rifle, which was found concealed in a bush near an electric pole in Purongo Subcounty, was retrieved without any ammunition. Authorities believe the firearm had been used to threaten residents in the area and facilitate criminal operations in the region.

Efforts to track down other suspects linked to the case are ongoing. Investigators are following several leads with the aim of dismantling what may be a broader criminal network involved in livestock theft and illegal possession of firearms.

Police commended the vigilance and cooperation of the local community, which played a pivotal role in both intercepting the suspect and aiding in the recovery of the weapon.

“We thank the residents for their timely action and support,” said a statement from the Nwoya District Police Command. “The public’s involvement remains critical in ensuring the safety and security of our communities.”

The recovered firearm will undergo forensic analysis to determine whether it has been linked to any previous criminal incidents. Meanwhile, Omony remains in custody as investigations continue.

The post SMG Rifle Recovered in Nwoya as Police Foil Livestock Theft Attempt appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The CDF is promising that the leadership’s words will be matched with visible action aimed at transforming the army into a modern and professional force.

While presiding over the inaugural CDF Inter-Forces Drill Competitions at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Tuesday, Gen Kainerugaba outlined a broad agenda that includes better accommodation, healthcare, feeding, transport, education, and logistical support for soldiers and their families.

“In UPDF, our words as commanders and leaders will match our actions and deeds. We are already working hard to improve soldiers’ welfare across the board, where they sleep, where they work, how they feed, how they access medical care, how they dress, how they move, and how their children access education services,” Gen Kainerugaba said.

The military chief also stressed the importance of raising the standards of professional military education at all levels, noting that improving training for recruits and non-commissioned officers is a central component of building a competent and modern force.

“Within the UPDF, we are now paying great attention to the quality of professional military education of our officers and men — from the most basic level of recruit training to the ranks of non-commissioned officers,” he added.

Gen Kainerugaba’s comments come at a time when security forces, including the police and prisons, have long grappled with challenges such as poor housing, meagre salaries, and substandard living conditions.

Addressing these concerns, he said, is essential for strengthening morale, discipline, and operational efficiency across the UPDF.

Drill Competitions Showcase Excellence

The CDF Inter-Forces Drill Competitions, the first of their kind in UPDF history, brought together soldiers in a spirited display of precision, teamwork, and discipline.

Gen Kainerugaba praised all participants for their performance and encouraged the continuation of such competitions as a culture within the force.

“I want to believe that just like me, all of you enjoyed the performances that were presented. This great spectacle has showcased some of the best that UPDF has to offer: precision, teamwork, and skills. You all did well. Congratulations to everyone of you,” he said.

He added that military drills are a global standard, commonly observed among world-class armies, including those of Britain, China, Russia, India, and Pakistan. UPDF, he said, must strive to meet that bar.

“We must continually improve our drills so that we may be counted among the best militaries in the world,” Gen Kainerugaba stated.

The general noted that opening the event to members of the public was a deliberate move to create awareness and appreciation for the discipline and structure behind military parades.

A New Era of Excellence

Gen Kainerugaba described the competition as symbolic of a new era for the UPDF, one driven by precision, attention to detail, time management, and teamwork.

“The outcome of these drill competitions will reinvigorate true discipline, self-control, and pride in the uniform, not just for the UPDF, but for Uganda as a whole. I encourage commanders to rotate participants in future drill competitions so that all units benefit from this culture,” he remarked.

“A new era has dawned for the UPDF. We will pursue excellence in all fields, without exception. This is a small demonstration of the excellence we are pursuing in many fields.”

Attendees and International Participation

The event attracted international interest, with defence advisors and military attachés from countries including Russia, China, Rwanda, Egypt, and Ethiopia in attendance.

Notable attendees included Minister of State for Children and Youth Affairs Balaam Barugahara, Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees Lillian Aber, and the NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong, alongside several members of the NRM Central Executive Committee.

The post Gen Muhoozi Vows to Improve Soldiers’ Welfare, Professionalise UPDF appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The initiative, spearheaded by the Ugandan government in partnership with the Russian Joint Stock Company (JSC) Global Security, was intended to aid law enforcement in quickly identifying vehicles used in criminal activities. However, over a year since the phased rollout began, frustrated vehicle owners and security officials are questioning the effectiveness of the system, highlighting glaring gaps in its implementation.

One of the most vocal groups raising concerns is boda boda (motorcycle taxi) riders, who were among the first to have their bikes fitted with the new plates. Many have reported cases of stolen motorcycles that remain untraceable, contradicting official claims that the system would enhance vehicle security.

“We were told these plates would protect us from theft,” lamented John Ssemakula, a Kampala-based boda boda rider who lost his motorcycle last month. “I reported it to the police, but they told me they couldn’t track it. So what was the point of upgrading to these plates if they don’t work?”

Security sources within the Uganda Police Force, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that there is a major disconnect between the tracking technology and law enforcement operations.

“The information simply isn’t getting to the right place,” a senior traffic officer admitted. “We have cases where vehicle details don’t update properly in the system, and sometimes, incident reports don’t even reach the monitoring center in time. There’s a big gap between what was promised and what is happening on the ground.”

At the heart of the controversy is JSC Global Security, the Russian firm awarded the 10-year contract to implement the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS). The company, tasked with manufacturing and distributing the digital plates, is now facing allegations of incompetence and misrepresentation.

Critics, including government insiders, allege that JSC is not an actual manufacturer but a brokerage firm that imports number plates from Poland.

“They have no manufacturing capacity of their own,” an official familiar with the deal revealed. “They are simply buying and reselling plates from elsewhere. This raises serious concerns about quality control, sustainability, and whether Uganda is truly getting the technology it paid for.”

The decision to award the contract to JSC has also been criticized for sidelining Tumpeco, a Ugandan company owned by businessman Gordon Wavamunno, which previously produced the country’s number plates.

“Tumpeco had the expertise and infrastructure to make these plates locally,” another industry insider noted. “Instead, a foreign middleman with questionable capabilities was brought in. This is not only an issue of fairness but also of national economic growth. Why was a local manufacturer ignored in favor of an unproven foreign entity?”

The rollout, which began with government vehicles in November 2023 and expanded to motorcycles in November 2024, has been marred by delays and operational challenges. Motorists have reported long waiting periods before receiving their plates, as well as confusion over the payment and issuance process.

“We’ve seen people pay for their plates and wait for months without receiving them,” a vehicle owner from Wakiso complained. “The process is neither transparent nor efficient. There are too many middlemen, and no one seems to have clear answers.”

Additionally, there are growing concerns about the cost of the digital plates, which some Ugandans argue is disproportionately high.

“These plates are expensive, yet they don’t even offer real-time tracking,” said an automotive technology analyst who requested anonymity. “In other countries, digital number plates are linked to an advanced tracking network that allows authorities to pinpoint a vehicle’s exact location in case of theft or crime. But in Uganda, the system being marketed as ‘digital’ is really just a standard plate with a chip embedded in it, and that chip doesn’t provide the necessary tracking capabilities.”

One of the most alarming revelations is that the digital plates have not yet been integrated with Uganda’s network of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras, a key component that was expected to enhance security monitoring.

“Without CCTV integration, these plates lose most of their intended functionality,” a police source explained. “The system was supposed to allow automatic recognition of stolen vehicles through a centralized database connected to surveillance cameras. That hasn’t happened, and as a result, vehicle theft remains as rampant as ever.”

The growing dissatisfaction with the project has triggered calls for greater oversight and accountability. Civil society organizations and opposition figures are now urging the government to conduct a comprehensive review of the project and reassess its partnership with JSC Global Security.

“This is another example of a failed government contract that is costing taxpayers billions,” said an opposition legislator. “We need a full audit of this deal, and if necessary, the contract should be canceled in favor of a more competent and transparent approach.”

As pressure mounts, Ugandan authorities are yet to provide a clear response to the concerns raised. Meanwhile, vehicle owners across the country remain frustrated, uncertain whether the new number plates will ever fulfill their promised role in crime prevention.

The post Uganda’s Digital Number Plate Scheme in Crisis as Stolen Vehicles Remain Untraceable appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

In a statement posted on his X account (formally Twitter) on February 18, 2025, Museveni underscored the importance of accountability over yielding to political pressure or granting bail without due process.

Museveni criticized the public’s focus on Besigye’s remand, urging attention to the reasons behind his arrest. He stated that a swift trial would unveil the facts, and that advocating for bail without ensuring accountability could undermine national security.

“If you are innocent, why not demand a quick trial so that you can prove your innocence and expose those who are “persecuting” you, instead of demanding bail or forgiveness, as if serious crimes are entitled to holidays?” said President Museveni

While acknowledging Uganda’s history of reconciliation, Museveni stressed that serious offenses necessitate responsibility, drawing parallels to past leaders who prioritized national stability.

The President attributed delays in Besigye’s trial to legal ambiguities within military courts.

Following a Supreme Court ruling that barred the prosecution of civilians in military tribunals, the government has been transferring such cases to civilian courts.

Concurrently, lawmakers are amending the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Act to address procedural gaps. Museveni assured the public that once these files are moved to civilian courts or the amendments are enacted, the legal process will proceed accordingly.

Regarding concerns about Besigye’s health, Museveni dismissed claims of inadequate medical care as “unprincipled blackmail” intended to elicit sympathy and secure bail.

He noted that Besigye has access to medical facilities within Luzira Prison and receives visits from personal doctors. Museveni attributed Besigye’s frailty to a self-imposed hunger strike and asserted that the government would provide additional care if necessary.

Museveni made it clear that Besigye will remain detained until the conclusion of his trial, whether conducted in civilian courts or through revised military proceedings. He urged Besigye to prove his innocence in court rather than through protests and called on the public to await the judicial outcomes.

The situation has intensified Uganda’s political climate, with opposition groups condemning Besigye’s detention as politically motivated. International organizations, including the Commonwealth and Amnesty International, have expressed concerns over his prolonged detention and deteriorating health, urging the Ugandan government to uphold democratic principles and human rights.

Below is President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s Full Statement

The post Gen. Museveni Challenges Besigye: ‘If Innocent, Demand Trial—Not Bail or Forgiveness’ appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Speaking from the capital, Kinshasa, Tshisekedi condemned Rwanda’s alleged role in backing the rebel group, labelling it a “flagrant breach of international law” and vowing a robust military counteroffensive to reclaim lost territories.

“We will not tolerate the violation of our sovereignty. Every inch of Congolese soil will be liberated,” he declared, rallying citizens to unite behind the nation’s armed forces.

The President’s speech came hours after M23 fighters seized control of Goma, a strategic city bordering Rwanda, escalating tensions in a conflict that has displaced over 1 million civilians since the group’s resurgence in 2021.

Tshisekedi appealed to the international community to “end its silence” and hold Rwanda accountable while urging Congolese diaspora communities to support the homeland’s defence efforts.

In response to the crisis, Tshisekedi unveiled sweeping measures to bolster national security, including increased military funding, enhanced logistical support for frontline troops, and urgent humanitarian aid for displaced populations.

He also temporarily reallocated government resources to prioritize the war effort, signalling a shift toward a wartime economy.

“Our resolve is unshakable. We will pursue these aggressors and their sponsors with every tool at our disposal,” Tshisekedi asserted, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to restoring peace.

The M23, a rebel faction reactivated in 2021 after nearly a decade of dormancy, has repeatedly denied ties to Rwanda. However, UN experts and Western governments have corroborated Kinshasa’s claims of Rwandan support, including troop deployments and arms supplies.

Below is Tshisekedi’s speech translated from French to English: 

These acts are not only an attack on the Republic but also an offence to the history and dignity of our people. In these difficult times, I call on you to show resilience and, above all, resistance.

In response to this situation, allow me to reassure you. A vigorous and coordinated response against these terrorists and their sponsors is underway.

Our valiant armed forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, symbols of courage and patriotism, are fully mobilized and ready to defend every inch of our territory.

I have personally convened and chaired crisis meetings with a small team from the government, the high military command, and an inter-institutional meeting to assess recent developments and determine the necessary actions to repel the aggressors and reclaim every part of our land.

To this end, on January 28, I appointed Major General Hébariste Somo Kakoulé as the military governor of North Kivu to strengthen the coordination of operations.

This is the struggle of an entire people, the fight for our Congolese identity, to bequeath a prosperous and peaceful country to future generations. 

Civilian support

To all our compatriots in every province, every city, every territory, and every village, as well as those in the diaspora, regardless of ethnic or political affiliation, let us unite our efforts. 

Let us provide unwavering moral and material support to our valiant soldiers. Let us mobilize as one to defend our sovereignty and safeguard our territorial integrity.

I am fully aware of the suffering of our compatriots fleeing the hostilities. The government has been instructed to activate the emergency humanitarian plan to assist the displaced. 

To you, residents of Goma and the surrounding areas, I deeply feel your pain, which is also mine. It pierces our hearts and souls as sons and daughters of the same nation. 

But in the face of this ordeal, I urge you to draw strength from the inner resilience that defines the greatness of the Congolese people. Resist with courage, remain constantly vigilant, and keep calm despite adversity.

Plans

Know that we have not remained inactive. Contingency plans have been prepared to ensure the protection of the civilian population and prevent any escalation of violence. 

Security measures have been strengthened to protect strategic areas, and we are working tirelessly to ensure the continued operation of essential services.

Chirimwami Death

I wish to pay solemn tribute to all those who have paid the ultimate price in this fight for our dignity and sovereignty. I have a solemn thought for Major General Peter Chirimwami Nkuba, military governor of North Kivu, who fell with weapons in hand.

 I bow in respect to the memory of all our soldiers and all the Wazalendo who perished on the battlefield. 

I also think of the soldiers from the Southern African Development Community mission, the SAMIDRC, who are fighting alongside us, the UN peacekeepers of MONUSCO who have sacrificed their lives for peace, as well as the countless civilians who have fallen victim to enemy barbarism. Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and we carry their torch with the firm determination to complete their noble fight.

Rwanda aggression

I now directly address the international community and the African Union. 

Rwanda continues to openly and unscrupulously violate the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter and regional agreements. 

Worse, these actions occur in total impunity, with blatant disregard for international rules and the values these institutions are supposed to uphold. 

This arrogant attitude, which no longer even bothers to hide its pretences, is an unacceptable provocation against our sovereignty and regional stability.

The presence of thousands of Rwandan soldiers on our soil, their political, logistical, and military support for their M23 puppets, and their involvement in the illegal exploitation of our natural resources are leading us directly toward an escalation with unpredictable consequences that endanger the entire Great Lakes region.

Your silence and inaction in the face of the Kigali regime’s barbarism and the atrocities committed by its proxies on our territory are an affront not only to the Democratic Republic of Congo but also to the universal values of justice and peace. The Congolese people take note of this passivity, which borders on complicity.

Not bowing

Be assured of one thing: the Democratic Republic of Congo will neither allow itself to be humiliated nor crushed. We will fight, and we will triumph.

Congolese men and women, the situation is certainly grave, but our determination is even stronger. 

This critical moment offers us the opportunity to show the world what makes us strong—our unity, without which all our efforts would be in vain. 

I call on you to remain vigilant but not to succumb to hatred, division, or violence. I strongly condemn the acts of vandalism and looting that have targeted certain diplomatic missions accredited in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as private interests in Kinshasa. 

Riots

These irresponsible behaviours distort the legitimate expression of our anger in the face of the barbaric aggression imposed upon us and tarnish the peaceful demonstrations of support for our valiant armed forces, who fight with courage and dedication to defend our sovereignty.

Our commitment must remain firm and disciplined. We will win this war through our unity, our courage, and our sense of responsibility, not through blind violence and anarchy. This victory will only be possible if every Congolese person, wherever they are, fully understands the nature of our struggle.

I, therefore, call upon the entire nation—men and women, young and old, political actors, economic operators, civil society members, religious groups, artists, and athletes—to mobilize, to stand firmly behind our valiant armed forces, and to contribute in any way possible to the war effort.

Reduce expenditure 

I have instructed the government to implement strict measures to reduce institutional expenditures and the lifestyle of government officials so that the resources saved can be directly redirected to supporting our armed forces. 

In this national effort, I also call on the private sector to take responsibility and actively contribute to this common cause. Our soldiers are fighting heroically to defend our territorial integrity and sovereignty. They need our total support—morally, materially, and logistically.

To the Congolese youth, the pillar and hope of our nation, I urge you to respond massively to the call of the homeland. 

The time has come for you to rise, to put your energy and creativity at the service of the nation. We must strengthen our ranks, and every young Congolese person willing to defend their country has a place within our armed forces. 

Enlist massively in the army. You are the spearhead of our mission, and your mobilization is crucial for final victory.

To the brave people of North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri, you are the symbol of Congolese resilience, an inspiration for the entire nation. You are not alone in this ordeal. The entire Republic stands with you, united in hope and struggle. Together, we will face and overcome this challenge.

Wazalendo

To our valiant armed forces and the brave Wazalendo patriots, the true sentinels of national sovereignty, I pay my highest respects and, on behalf of the entire Republic, express our infinite gratitude and unwavering pride. 

Your bravery, discipline and unwavering commitment inspire and mobilize an entire people determined to defend its territory. Know that the Republic will never abandon you. Your fight is our fight, and your sacrifices will never be forgotten. You embody the honor of the Congolese nation.

To all my compatriots at home and in the diaspora, the Democratic Republic of Congo will not bow. The Democratic Republic of Congo will not retreat. I will never abandon you. I solemnly make this pledge.

The sun has not ceased to shine upon our homeland. Together, hand in hand, we will overcome this storm and usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for future generations.

May God bless the Democratic Republic of Congo and its people.

Thank you.

The post FULL SPEECH: Tshisekedi Slams Rwanda’s ‘Aggression’ in Goma Fall, Orders Counteroffensive Against M23 appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

This development adds to the ongoing efforts by security forces to restore peace in a city plagued by numerous illicit activities perpetrated by criminal elements.

In a statement issued on January 29, 2025, the West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Collins Asea, identified some individuals who voluntarily surrendered. They include Ali Tororo, Chicka (also known as Ali Baba), Lojugo, Oscar Boniface, Angina Roy, and Bashir (also known as Rambo), the leader of the Tito Tonki gang.

“The police in the West Nile region, in collaboration with the Office of the Resident City Commissioner and the community, have been actively engaging with individuals involved in criminal activities to rehabilitate and reintegrate them into society. Since last year, we have initiated dialogue with several known criminal gangs, urging them to abandon their unlawful activities within the city, surrounding areas, and the wider West Nile region,” part of Asea’s statement read.

According to the police, this initiative was orchestrated by the Arua Resident City Commissioner’s Office in partnership with concerned community members, who directly engaged with the individuals involved in criminal activities.

Asea noted that the surrendered gang members “have demonstrated a willingness to cooperate, and we are pleased to report a noticeable decline in incidents such as phone and bag snatching on the streets, among other crimes.”

The police have encouraged others engaged in criminal activities to come forward and embrace a path of positive change.

Throughout the year, security forces in Arua City have conducted various operations to rid the city of notorious criminals who exacerbate insecurity through theft, robbery, break-ins, burglaries, and other offences. However, these crimes persist.

Local leaders and stakeholders have been urged to integrate the surrendered individuals into life-changing ventures, such as vocational skills training and productive activities, to empower them to become valuable citizens.

The police have also encouraged the community to welcome the reformed individuals and avoid harassing them. They called for vigilance and urged residents to report any signs of a return to criminal behaviour.

Authorities emphasised the importance of a mindset change among the pardoned individuals, warning that “their files remain open, and any breach of the law will result in the reactivation of their charges.”

Additionally, authorities have called for meaningful reconciliation between the pardoned gang members and the communities they wronged to foster unity.

However, some city residents have repeatedly expressed frustration over the authorities’ reported practice of releasing suspects early, which they believe has contributed to the persistence of crime in the city.

The post From Terror to Truce: Arua’s Most Wanted Surrender appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The demonstrations erupted amid allegations of foreign involvement in the ongoing conflict between the Congolese army and M23 rebels, a group that has intensified its campaign in Goma, a strategic city near the Rwandan border. Protesters accused Uganda and Rwanda of supporting the rebels, claims both countries have denied.

Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds in Goma

The M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwandan forces according to the United Nations, have seized control of key areas in Goma, including government offices and the headquarters of the national broadcaster. With a population of over two million, the city is facing a humanitarian crisis as intense fighting forces thousands to flee.

Hospitals in Goma are overwhelmed with injured civilians, including women and children. Tragically, an explosive device hit a maternity hospital and a camp for displaced persons, causing fatalities and injuries.

Artillery fire near the Rwanda-DRC border has further escalated the situation, with casualties reported on both sides. A United Nations official described the atmosphere as “highly volatile,” warning of the risk of a broader regional conflict.

Calls for International Action

Protesters in Kinshasa have demanded stronger international intervention, including sanctions against Rwanda. Meanwhile, the Congolese government has appealed to the U.N. Security Council for urgent action to de-escalate the crisis.

Kenya has stepped in to mediate, announcing an online meeting between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame to discuss the growing conflict.

As the fighting continues, the people of Goma are bearing the brunt of the violence, with many families displaced and struggling to find safety in overcrowded camps. The attack on Uganda’s embassy underscores the rising regional tensions and the urgent need for peace-building efforts to stabilize the region.

The post Protesters Attack Uganda Embassy in Kinshasa Amid Escalating Eastern DRC Conflict appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The temporary market, located in Busia and Ogwarunen villages in Yada Parish, Jangokoro Sub-County, will operate weekly on Mondays and Thursdays. It is open to traders from both Uganda and DR Congo.

According to local leaders, the new Awasi Market aims to repurpose the underutilised border area, transforming it into a bustling hub of economic activity.

Concerns have been mounting from Ugandan traders across Zombo District, who report being extorted and forced to sell commodities against their will by DR Congo authorities in the Awasi Market.

Sadiki Onencan, the district’s Social Services Committee Chairperson, stated on Sunday, January 19, 2025, that the initiative aims to address mistreatment, ensure trader safety, and boost local revenue for Uganda.

“We held a meeting with our Ugandan traders and agreed to temporarily start the market at Awasi Primary School playground. On the first day, last Thursday, the traders operated peacefully,” Onencan said.

Rising Tensions Along the Border

Two weeks ago, over 50 Congolese soldiers briefly entered Ugandan territory at Awasi Trading Centre, claiming ownership of the area. Zombo District leaders swiftly intervened to settle the matter, raising concerns about the infringement of international law by DR Congo authorities.

David Binen Arua, the District Councillor for Jangokoro Sub-County, urged the community to support the new market. He revealed that the sub-county has initiated the process of acquiring land for a permanent market in Jangokoro.

The establishment of this market aligns with Zombo District’s efforts to promote market creation in all 15 lower local governments, fostering entrepreneurship and building a self-sustaining economy.

Efforts to Secure Trade and Territory

Binwengi Nasis, the district’s Secretary for Finance, Planning, and Administration, recently recommended acquiring land for a Ugandan market to address traders’ grievances.

Tensions along the Uganda-DR Congo border in Jangokoro Sub-County remain high, especially around a contested territorial boundary where Zombo is undertaking a water drilling project claimed by DR Congo authorities.

Assistant RDC Bruno Manano assured residents of security in the area, emphasising ongoing diplomatic efforts to manage relations between the two countries.

Local Reactions

Local traders, including Con Nyingambe and Prisca Awacango, welcomed the new market, citing relief from extortion by Congolese authorities.

Ronald, a resident of Lelu in Jangokoro Sub-County, expressed joy over the new market, recounting his repeated harassment in DR Congo’s Awasi Market for not carrying a national ID.

Slot Richard Odaga, a resident of Padea Town Council, reported that boda boda riders from Uganda now trade cautiously with Congolese passengers due to the frosty relations.

Calls for Intervention

Zombo RDC Festus Ayikobua announced on a local radio station that engagements with Congolese authorities are underway to resolve misunderstandings.

LCV Chairperson James Oruna Oyullu has called for intervention by Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Kinshasa government. He also appealed for peaceful coexistence between locals from both countries.

Historical Context

Territorial disputes between Uganda and DR Congo have persisted since the early 2000s. In May 2023, Congolese locals occupied three Ugandan villages, prompting crisis talks between the two nations.

Last year, Uganda and DR Congo held a joint technical committee meeting in Goma to reaffirm their border and develop a roadmap for its demarcation.

Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to lead diplomatic efforts, with 44.8 kilometres of the 817-kilometre border reaffirmed to date.

This newly established market underscores Zombo District’s proactive steps to protect Ugandan traders and foster peaceful, economic collaboration with DR Congo.

The post Zombo Launches New Market to Protect Traders from DR Congo Harassment appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The aim is to enable the committee to distinguish official military attire from other clothing clearly.

The directive followed concerns raised during a meeting with senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and UPDF leaders to review the ministry’s budget framework for the upcoming financial year.

Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze, along with other National Unity Platform members (NUP) members, initiated the discussion by addressing the arrests of NUP supporters wearing red overalls and red berets.

Nambooze questioned why these individuals were charged in the Court Martial for allegedly wearing military uniforms when their attire aligns with NUP’s official party colours.

“Mr. Chairperson, many of our supporters have been arrested and prosecuted for wearing clothes claimed to be reserved for the UPDF, yet red is our party’s colour,” Nambooze stated during the session.

In response, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt. Gen. Samuel Okiding outlined the official UPDF uniforms but did not include red overalls in the list, raising further concerns.

Nambooze pressed for clarification, questioning why NUP supporters were being prosecuted for wearing items not officially listed as UPDF attire.

Committee Chairperson Wilson Kagwenje instructed Lt. Gen. Okiding and Minister Oboth Oboth to compile and submit a detailed list of all gazetted UPDF uniforms and symbols to resolve the matter.

This document is expected to provide clarity to the controversy and ensure a clear distinction between military and non-military clothing.

The post Parliament Seeks Official UPDF Uniform List Amid NUP Supporter Arrests appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The two officers, who are being held at Paidha Central Police Station, reportedly came from Bunia in DR Congo.

They were allegedly sent by their leaders to verify the water drilling project being undertaken by Zombo District Local Government in the area.

The water project is expected to benefit thousands of residents from both Uganda and DR Congo, who share similar cultures, traditions, languages, and even national identity cards.

Local leaders report that Congolese authorities are claiming ownership of the territory, which has been under Zombo District Local Government’s jurisdiction for decades.

Authorities Respond

Zombo Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Grace Atim confirmed the arrest, noting that the officers entered Uganda without permission and were inspecting the water project site.

“When they came, our security team arrested two of them, but others ran away. They are currently at Paidha Central Police Station. We are waiting to hand them over to our counterparts in Congo,” Atim said during an interview.

Atim assured the public that the situation remains calm. “We don’t want this small border issue to damage the good relationship the two countries enjoy. We shall find time to meet and resolve the issue,” she added.

Escalating Border Disputes

This incident follows a similar one on January 3, when over 50 armed DR Congo soldiers, led by the RDC of Mahagi Territory in Ituri Province, illegally crossed into Uganda at the same location. The soldiers withdrew after swift intervention and compromise by Zombo District leaders and their Congolese counterparts.

Such actions are considered a violation of international law.

Zombo RDC Festus Ayikobua has urged Congolese authorities to use appropriate and amicable channels to address disputes. Local leaders assert that the contested territory has been used by Uganda under Zombo District Local Government for decades.

Calls for Permanent Solutions

Zombo District LCV Chairperson, James Oruna Oyullu, has called for intervention by Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Kinshasa government to resolve the ongoing border dispute permanently.

“To make matters worse, the area they are claiming is not even in DR Congo; it is in Uganda at the border,” Oyullu stated last week.

Since the early 2000s, territorial disputes between Uganda and DR Congo have persisted, despite continuous efforts by both governments to address them amicably.

Ongoing Border Challenges

Ugandan traders, especially from Zombo District, have raised concerns about harsh treatment from Congolese authorities when crossing into the Awasi Weekly Market in DR Congo.

In May 2023, Congolese locals occupied three Ugandan villages—Acu, Oyaro, and Acu Cell—in Padea Town Council and Abanga Sub-County, stoking tensions until a crisis meeting was convened to resolve the matter.

Efforts for Border Demarcation

Last year, Uganda and DR Congo held a joint technical committee meeting in Goma, DR Congo, aimed at reaffirming their common border and developing a roadmap for the demarcation of the 817-kilometre shared boundary.

To date, Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports that only 44.8 kilometres of the border have been reaffirmed, including a 28-kilometre stretch from Offo/Vura and a 16.8-kilometre section from Sarambwe/Bwindi.

Efforts to maintain peaceful relations and ensure proper border demarcation remain a priority for both nations.

The post Congolese Police Officers Arrested for Illegally Inspecting Ugandan Water Project appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).