Uganda has reinforced its military presence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), sending an estimated 1,000 to 2,000 additional troops over the past week, according to United Nations and diplomatic sources. The deployment comes amid escalating conflict between the Congolese government and the M23 rebel group, raising concerns about further regional instability.
The reinforcements are reportedly moving toward North Kivu province, a mineral-rich area historically marred by violence. M23, a rebel group with alleged ties to Rwanda, previously captured the strategic city of Goma. The region has been a flashpoint for armed conflict since the 1990s, drawing multiple foreign actors and generating severe humanitarian crises.
With the latest troop movement, Uganda’s total presence in eastern Congo is estimated at 4,000–5,000 soldiers. Uganda claims its operations are focused on combating the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) under Operation Shujaa, which began in 2021. However, UN reports and local officials have raised concerns about potential engagement with M23, given historical overlaps and Uganda’s complex regional interests.
“There’s still a lot of suspicion about Uganda and its engagement with M23,” said Congolese Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya, emphasizing that while Uganda aims to fight the ADF, interactions with rebel forces cannot be ruled out.
Ugandan military spokesperson Felix Kulayigye downplayed the scale of the deployment, describing the troop movement as a “posture to offensive defense,” without specifying details. Meanwhile, residents in Butembo have reported sightings of Ugandan forces heading south toward M23 positions, sparking speculation about Uganda’s true intentions.
Historical tensions linger, as both Uganda and Rwanda have intervened in eastern Congo before, citing security concerns while facing accusations of exploiting mineral wealth. Analysts suggest Uganda’s actions are driven by a mix of security and economic interests. “Eastern Congo is crucial for Uganda’s economy. The country is taking necessary steps to maintain stability and protect its interests along the border,” said Zobel Behalal, expert at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime.
The influence of Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of Uganda’s President and military head, adds further complexity. Kainerugaba has expressed support for Rwandan President Paul Kagame and previously referred to M23 fighters as “brothers” defending Tutsi rights in Congo.
While M23 consolidates control in North Kivu and advances toward Bukavu, Congolese and Burundian forces have resisted the rebels’ progress. Uganda continues to focus on countering the Islamic State-linked ADF, whose origins trace back to Uganda. Recent joint operations have weakened the group and forced them to abandon key strongholds.
As regional dynamics shift and alliances remain uncertain, Uganda’s growing military footprint in eastern Congo continues to raise questions about its long-term strategy and the potential impact on regional stability.
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