Uganda and DRC Deepen Digital and Regional Cooperation

Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo have strengthened bilateral relations following the successful conclusion of the 9th Uganda–DRC Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) held in Kampala from 8th to 10th May 2026, culminating in the signing of several cooperation agreements witnessed by President Yoweri Museveni and President Félix Tshisekedi on 11th May 2026 ahead of Uganda’s swearing-in ceremony. The three-day meeting brought together ministers, permanent secretaries, senior government officials, and technical teams from both countries to discuss cooperation in ICT, trade, security, tourism, transport, infrastructure, migration, and regional integration. Among the key agreements signed was a Memorandum of Understanding between Uganda’s Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and the DRC Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy. The agreement will see the two countries work together to strengthen digital transformation and improve regional connectivity. One of the major projects will involve connecting Uganda’s National Backbone Infrastructure to the DRC’s fibre-optic network to expand internet access and improve digital services across the region. The partnership will also focus on cybersecurity, digital literacy, capacity building, and digital skills development to support innovation, communication, trade, and better service delivery. Speaking at the close of the JPC, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Hon Dr Chris Baryomunsi, said the partnership reflects the growing cooperation between the two countries and their shared vision of using technology to improve people’s lives. “We have agreed to work together on several joint programmes aimed at accelerating digital transformation in our two countries. This includes connecting Uganda’s National Backbone Infrastructure to the fibre-optic network in the DRC, strengthening cybersecurity cooperation, building digital skills, and promoting digital literacy among our people,” Hon. Dr Chris Baryomunsi said. He added that the partnership would create more opportunities for innovation, investment, trade, and regional integration. The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr Aminah Zawedde, said the cooperation would strengthen institutions and support inclusive development across the region. “This partnership focuses on practical areas that directly affect our people and economies. Improved connectivity, stronger digital systems, and knowledge sharing will support innovation, trade, and service delivery between our two countries,” Dr Aminah Zawedde said. At the MOU signing at State House Entebbe, President Museveni welcomed the agreements and called on African governments to remove barriers to trade and cross-border movement. “I commend both sides for signing agreements that will directly benefit our people. African governments should not frustrate wananchi with unnecessary barriers to trade and movement. These agreements are a step in the right direction,” President Museveni said. Officials from both countries described the Joint Permanent Commission as an important milestone in strengthening cooperation, promoting regional stability, and creating shared prosperity across the Great Lakes Region.