Uganda has denied reports claiming it recently deployed over 1,000 additional soldiers to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where Congolese forces are battling M23 rebels. The alleged deployment, reported by diplomatic and UN sources, has fueled concerns over a potential escalation of the regional conflict.
Ugandan troops have been operating in eastern DRC since 2021 under “Operation Shujaa,” an initiative aimed at combating the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group with Ugandan origins. However, recent reports suggested that between 1,000 and 2,000 additional Ugandan soldiers were sent north of Goma, increasing Uganda’s troop presence to an estimated 4,000-5,000.
Despite claims from residents who reportedly saw Ugandan troops moving towards the M23 frontline, Ugandan military spokesperson Felix Kulayigye dismissed the allegations. He stated that Ugandan forces had merely “changed their posture to offensive defence” without providing further details.
Concerns Over Uganda’s Ties to M23
The M23 rebel group, which has seized vast territories in North Kivu province and recently strengthened its hold on Goma, is widely believed to have Rwandan backing. UN experts have also accused Uganda of supporting M23 by training fighters and providing logistical assistance—allegations Uganda denies.
Corneille Nangaa, head of the Alliance Fleuve Congo, an umbrella group that includes M23, stated that Uganda had not provided direct support but also did not consider M23 an enemy.
Eastern DRC, known for its vast mineral wealth, plays a crucial role in Uganda’s economy. Analysts believe Uganda’s military presence is not only about security but also about protecting economic interests.
“Eastern Congo is as important to Uganda’s economy as it is to Rwanda’s,” said Zobel Behalal, an expert at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime. He suggested that Uganda is positioning itself to ensure continued access to trade and resources despite ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s son and military leader, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has added to speculation over Uganda’s stance. He has previously expressed sympathy for M23, referring to its fighters as “brothers” and aligning himself with Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame.
Regional Tensions and Future Implications
As M23 advances further south, regional tensions continue to rise. Congolese and Burundian forces have resisted the group’s advances, though the rebels insist they do not plan to seize Bukavu.
Uganda’s denial of new troop deployments has done little to ease suspicions, and with multiple armed factions and foreign interests involved, the conflict in eastern DRC remains highly volatile.