In a major step toward peace in the troubled eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, held talks with leaders of the CODECO militia group in Entebbe. The meeting, which took place earlier today, brought together key figures from both sides in an effort to end years of conflict and build lasting stability in the region.

CODECO, a Lendu-led armed group, has been involved in violent clashes in eastern Congo, including past confrontations with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). The delegation was led by Mr. Dunji Kulukpa Etienne, Vice President of the Lendu Community in eastern DRC, and included both political and military representatives from the group.

On Uganda’s side, the high-level discussions were attended by Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, Commander of Land Forces; Maj. Gen. Felix Busizoori, Commander of the UPDF 4th Infantry Division; and Brig. Gen. Oscar Munanura, Assistant Deputy Defence Intelligence and Security Chief for Counter Intelligence. The CODECO leaders had arrived in Uganda days earlier and were received by senior UPDF commanders before the main meeting with Gen. Muhoozi.

During the talks, Mr. Dunji expressed gratitude for Uganda’s hospitality and extended an apology for past clashes between CODECO fighters and Ugandan forces in Fataki. He explained that misinformation and manipulation by “negative forces” had fueled resistance against the UPDF’s presence in the area. He assured that the Lendu people, along with the Balega and Bahema communities, bear no hostility toward Uganda or its military.

Mr. Dunji also lamented the ongoing suffering in Ituri Province, blaming divisive politics for the region’s instability. He praised Uganda for its long-standing support, including medical assistance, refuge for displaced Congolese, and economic opportunities for traders and workers crossing the border.

In his response, Gen. Muhoozi highlighted Uganda’s deep historical connections with eastern Congo, particularly North Kivu and Ituri. He reminded the group of past cooperation between Ugandan forces and local communities in fighting rebel groups like the Uganda Homeland Liberation Front (UHLF) and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in the early 2000s.

The army chief urged CODECO leaders to work closely with the UPDF in restoring peace and security in the region. As a sign of goodwill, he announced that injured CODECO fighters would receive free medical treatment at UPDF facilities—a move seen as a confidence-building measure.

This meeting marks a significant development in regional peace efforts. For years, eastern Congo has been plagued by violence involving multiple armed groups, ethnic tensions, and competition over land and resources. CODECO, primarily composed of Lendu fighters, has been accused of deadly attacks against rival communities, contributing to a humanitarian crisis with thousands displaced.

Uganda has played an active role in trying to stabilize the region, including through joint military operations with the DRC government against rebel groups like the ADF. However, clashes between CODECO and Ugandan troops have complicated these efforts. Today’s discussions suggest a possible shift toward dialogue rather than confrontation.

The talks also reflect Uganda’s broader strategy of engaging armed groups diplomatically while maintaining military pressure on those who refuse to lay down arms. Gen. Muhoozi, known for his hands-on leadership style, has been increasingly involved in regional security matters, emphasizing the need for cooperation among neighboring countries to address cross-border insurgencies.

While the meeting in Entebbe is a positive step, challenges remain. Some factions within CODECO may resist peace talks, and other armed groups continue to operate in eastern Congo. Additionally, deep-rooted ethnic tensions and competition over resources could undermine progress.

Nevertheless, today’s discussions offer hope for reduced violence and improved relations between Ugandan forces and local communities in eastern DRC. If successful, this dialogue could pave the way for broader peace initiatives involving other armed groups and regional stakeholders.

As the meeting concluded, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to working together for stability in the Great Lakes region. For now, the focus will be on implementing confidence-building measures, such as medical assistance for wounded fighters, and exploring further opportunities for collaboration.

The people of eastern Congo, weary of decades of conflict, will be watching closely to see if these talks translate into real change on the ground. For Uganda, the engagement with CODECO represents another step in its long-standing effort to promote peace and security beyond its borders—a mission that remains critical for the stability of the entire region.