The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have held a bilateral meeting aimed at strengthening coordination and security operations on Lake Edward, following an incident that occurred on 1 October 2025.
The meeting, held at Kasindi Port in Beni, Eastern DRC, brought together the UPDF Mountain Division Commander, Maj Gen Stephen Mugerwa, the UPDF 2 Infantry Division Deputy Commander, Col James Kasule, and the FARDC Sector Commander for the Northern Front – Kivu Brig Gen Mugisa Muleka Joseph.
Discussions focused on enhancing joint security mechanisms and establishing regular coordination between marine forces operating on Lake Edward to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Maj Gen Mugerwa emphasised the importance of structured collaboration, calling for the creation of a joint committee to oversee coordination and regular engagements between the two forces.
“Marine commanders should meet regularly. There is a need for a committee that will always convene to resolve issues and strengthen our cooperation,” he said.
In his remarks, Brig Gen Mugisa underscored the strong and enduring partnership between the two forces, noting that both countries face shared security challenges.
“FARDC and UPDF have a permanent bond and will continue to cooperate because we face common challenges,” he stated.
During the meeting, Maj Gen Mugerwa handed over five submachine guns, two light machine guns, 17 fully loaded SMG magazines, and two boxes of light machine gun ammunition to FARDC officials. He also confirmed that the boat and a 25-horsepower engine involved in the incident would be collected by the Congolese side within the week.
The delegations agreed on several measures to enhance cooperation including joint patrols on Lake Edward, regular security and fisheries coordination meetings, and sensitisation of fishing communities along the lake’s shores.
