EU Great Lakes Envoy Visits Uganda Over Crisis In DRC

The European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the Great Lakes Region, Johan Borgstam, is visiting Uganda from 16th February to 19th February as part of a broader mission to the region.      

On his second official visit to Uganda, Borgstam will hold high-level discussions with Ugandan authorities and the diplomatic community in the aftermath to the EAC/SADC summit 7-8 February and the African Union Summit 15-16 February.

Borgstam is expected to engage with civil society organisations and humanitarian actors to discuss how the crisis in eastern DRC affects border districts in Uganda, including in terms of refugees influx and violent extremism.     

The European Union views regional political processes as indispensable in addressing the escalating crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and attaches great importance to the central role of Uganda.   

Borgstam notes that the EU is deeply concerned about the escalation of the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, aggravated by the renewed offensive of the M23 supported by the Rwandan Armed Forces.   

“We strongly condemn this breach of international norms and principles. We welcome the outcome of the joint EAC/SADC summit and hope that it can lead to a rapid cessation of hostilities and to the relaunch of inclusive African-led efforts to reach a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Uganda plays a central role in this important work.  For me it is therefore crucial to engage directly with Ugandan authorities and I look forward to continue our discussions on these important matters. The EU continues to actively support regional efforts for stability and peace in the Great Lakes region.” Is quoted by a statement issue by the EU delegation in Uganda.  

EU Ambassador to Uganda H.E. Jan Sadek said the visit of the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the Great Lakes Region to Uganda highlights the EU's dedication to peace and stability in the region. 

At a time of heightened tensions, this visit emphasizes the importance of listening to the Region. Uganda’s role in local and regional political processes brings important lessons learned to take into considerations. 

“Our joint efforts aim to de-escalate tensions and promote long-term solutions consistent with the EU’s Great Lakes strategy, ensuring that all actions contribute constructively to regional stability,” he said.  

Appointed as European Union Special Representative (EUSR) since September 2024, Borgstam’s mission is to support the implementation of the renewed EU Great Lakes Strategy, whose objectives include: to contribute to peace, stability and security in the Great Lakes region, by promoting de-escalation of tensions and supporting dialogue and long-term regional solutions to crisis and conflicts, in particular in Eastern DRC; and to contribute to the regional efforts to transform the root causes of insecurity and instability into shared opportunities, unlocking the region’s full potential. 

Borgstam visited Uganda from 06th to 09th November 2024 and engaged with H.E. President Yoweri Museveni, Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba as well as other key interlocutors including representatives of civil society