Officials from Aru Territory in Ituri Province, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and the bordering Ugandan districts of Arua City, Arua district, and Maracha have committed to strengthening cross-border cooperation.
This was during a two-day meeting in Arua City from Thursday to Friday aimed to tackle cross-border crime and create a safer business environment for the neighbouring nations.
The discussions were led by the Aru Territorial Administrator from the DRC and the Arua Resident City Commissioner (RCC) from Uganda.
The agenda covered pressing issues affecting cross-border interactions, including differences in tax regimes, armed robberies, arbitrary arrests of nationals, smuggling, vehicle thefts, and unregistered motorcycle use.
Both sides acknowledged the challenges posed by the porous border, which complicates security and provides refuge for rogue elements and rebel groups.
Salim Kumakech, the RCC of Arua, highlighted the urgent need for swift action against cross-border crime, which has disrupted business activities and strained relations.
He also emphasised the importance of tax education for traders, so they adhere to international tax regulations.
Lt. Col. Nathan Bainomugisha, commander of the 409 Brigade in West Nile, underscored the need for vigilance and intelligence-sharing to apprehend criminals effectively.
He urged both parties to enhance collaboration for the safety and security of their citizens.
Gen. Taban Amin recalled the historical ties between the two nations that existed in 1960’s and 1970’s where people from both countries freely criss- crossed the border, encouraging cooperation beyond colonial-era borders.
“We are interlinked and interconnected. People committing crimes are our children who can be stopped if we are committed. Let the colonial borders not divide us,” he said.
Col. Richard Mbambi, Aru’s Territorial Administrator, praised Presidents Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC for their commitment to Pan-Africanism, which has fostered such local efforts for problem-solving.
The final communiqué, signed by both parties, called for dignified treatment of citizens at the border, a focus on local solutions for cross-border issues, and enhanced security awareness among business people.
Additional resolutions included registering all vehicles and motorcycles to aid in tracking criminals.
Other attendees included traditional leaders from Ochoo, Kakwa, and Lugbara chiefdoms; Maracha RDC Hajji Ramadhan Walugembe; business leaders from both sides; revenue authority executives; and regional security, immigration, and customs officials.
