The Ministry of Internal Affairs, through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control, has launched a series of diplomatic and community engagements in Greater Nebbi to educate local communities on legal cross-border trade, peaceful coexistence, and compliance with international agreements along the Uganda–DR Congo border.
The sensitization campaign is designed to build local partnerships, improve border management, and enhance access to economic and social opportunities while mitigating conflict and promoting secure mobility.
The initiative was launched during a bilateral meeting on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Oturgang Boys Primary School playground in Paidha Town Council, Zombo District. Local leaders, business representatives, officials from Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, a delegation from the DRC, security personnel, and district officials from Zombo, Nebbi, and Pakwach attended the event.
Mr. Marcelino Bwesigye, Assistant Commissioner for Borders and Foreign National Management, stressed the initiative’s role in Uganda’s socio-economic growth, while highlighting peace, unity, and security as key aspects of bilateral relations between Uganda and DRC.
“Our goal is to protect our gains and support everyone’s development,” Bwesigye said, emphasizing the long-standing trade relationship between Uganda and the DRC and the role of formalized trade in fostering mutual prosperity.
He urged communities to comply with legal frameworks, including proper documentation such as identity cards for Ugandans and passports for cross-border travel. “The government provides protection, but individuals must also ensure their own security,” he added, commending the DRC delegation for their dedication to collaboration.
Bwesigye also noted Uganda’s strategic location as a regional hub and the importance of formalizing trade to unlock economic growth. “DR Congo is Uganda’s largest trading partner, but to further boost growth, formal business practices must be embraced,” he explained.
The program also targeted youth and refugees, emphasizing the importance of adhering to immigration and trade regulations. Elizabeth Emili, from the Directorate’s Department of Inspection and Enforcement, outlined their efforts to combat human trafficking and security concerns, while Mozes Muhairwe stressed the need for legal registration of foreign nationals residing in Uganda.
Festus Ayikobua, Zombo’s Resident District Commissioner, praised the initiative’s contribution to peace and security, while also advocating for respect for gazetted borders, the deployment of immigration officers at key points, and ongoing community education efforts.
The DRC delegation reaffirmed their commitment to fostering trade, security, and peaceful coexistence. Key officials, including Mr. Mande Kivunganyi and Abubakar Katende, called for the establishment of additional immigration offices and the resolution of territorial disputes to facilitate smoother cross-border activities.
The sensitization campaign reached a wide range of local groups, including Boda Boda associations, students, youth, and community leaders, addressing issues such as smuggling and trafficking. With 53 gazetted ports of entry, 11 regional offices, and seven embassies abroad, the Directorate continues to facilitate orderly movement and promote regional cooperation.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to fully demarcate the 817-kilometer Uganda–DRC border, with 44.8 kilometers already reaffirmed, underscoring the need for continued diplomatic engagement and community education.
