(Zombo) – Over 50 armed soldiers from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), led by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Mahagi Territory in Ituri Province, crossed into Uganda at Awasi Center in Zombo District on January 3, 2025. The incursion occurred as Zombo District was drilling a borehole for a water project meant to benefit communities on both sides of the border.
Local leaders reported that the Congolese soldiers claimed ownership of the territory, which has historically been under Uganda’s jurisdiction. Festus Ayikobua, Zombo’s RDC, condemned the act, stating, “My colleague from Mahagi came with over 50 soldiers to stop the water construction in my sub-county.”
After consultations with security officials, the Congolese soldiers eventually withdrew. Ayikobua emphasized the need for peaceful dialogue, urging Congolese authorities to use appropriate channels for resolving disputes. Ugandan troops were deployed to ensure calm in the area.
| Incident Summary | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incursion | January 3, 2025 |
| Location | Awasi Center, Zombo District, Uganda |
| Number of Soldiers | Over 50 |
| Reason Claimed | Territorial ownership dispute |
| Resolution | Congolese soldiers withdrew peacefully |
James Oruna Oyullu, the LCV chairperson of Zombo District, expressed frustration over the lack of clarity from the Congolese side. “The purpose of their coming should have been made clear to us. They could have engaged us first to understand the water project,” he said. Oyullu added that the claimed area is undoubtedly within Uganda, not DR Congo.
The border area has long been a source of tension between the two nations. Similar incidents have occurred, including last May when Congolese locals claimed three Ugandan villages in Zombo District. Crisis meetings were held to de-escalate the situation.
In 2024, Uganda and DR Congo held a joint technical meeting in Goma to reaffirm their shared 817 kilometer border and address ongoing disputes. However, progress has been slow, with only 44.8 kilometers officially reaffirmed so far.
Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said it remains actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to maintain peaceful relations and finalize the border demarcation. While recent progress is a positive step, much work remains to prevent further incidents and ensure clarity over territorial boundaries.
Local traders, meanwhile have complained of harsh treatment by Congolese authorities when crossing into DR Congo for market activities.
