### Reinforcing Regional Security Debates: The Ugandan Intervention in the DRC and Its Implications
On 31 January 2025, the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) announced a significant reinforcement of its defences in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This decision comes alongside an intensification of military operations by the M23 rebel group, supported by Rwandan troops, in the provinces of North and South Kivu. At first glance, this intervention raises questions about regional security, but it also opens up a vast panorama of strategic, political and socio-cultural considerations that deserve to be explored.
#### A Response to Security Disorder
Recent events in the Kivu provinces, where several armed groups are competing for control of natural resources, pose a significant challenge not only to the DRC, but also to its neighbours, Uganda and Rwanda. According to Global Conflict Tracker data, more than 5 million Congolese have been displaced since 1998 by armed conflict; a figure that illustrates the urgency of a coordinated response to the violence.
Uganda’s military engagement is twofold: on the one hand, it aims to “deter” armed groups that profit from the chaos, and on the other hand, to protect Kampala’s national interests. In reality, it echoes a broader strategy by Uganda, which for several years has sought not only to secure its border, but also to establish a sphere of influence in this particularly volatile region.
#### A Strategy Based on Complex Alliances
The interaction between the different forces involved reflects the complexity of regional alliances. While a military partnership with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) appears to be a constructive move, it is important to recognize the distrust surrounding Uganda’s motivations for intervention. For comparison, we could look at the French military engagement in the Sahel, which, while initially appreciated, has gradually attracted criticism about the true geostrategic objectives of the interventions.
In addition, Uganda must navigate tricky terrain. The ADF, whose origins date back to the political opposition to the Yoweri Museveni regime in the 1980s, continues to conduct terror operations, particularly in Beni territory. These groups are not only a threat to the DRC; they also highlight Uganda’s internal fragilities, thus transforming the intervention in the DRC into a question of legitimacy for the government.
#### The Humanitarian Consequences of a Military Intervention
The use of military force to resolve internal conflicts carries some risk, particularly in terms of humanitarian impact. Local populations, already ravaged by years of violence, often find themselves trapped between the front lines. As a result, increased military presence can exacerbate civilian suffering, increase population displacement, and worsen humanitarian crises.
Local and international NGOs, such as Médecins Sans Frontières, have also reported an increase in the need for humanitarian assistance in areas affected by violence. Furthermore, the Human Rights Watch report on the situation in the DRC highlights the vicious cycle of violence where the military, while seeking to restore order, can themselves inadvertently become executioners.
#### Towards a Durable Solution
Stability in eastern DRC cannot be achieved through a military response alone. It is crucial that regional actors recognize the importance of intercommunal dialogue, institutional reform, and commitment to lasting peaceful solutions. The peace process must include local voices, even those of armed groups, to avoid marginalization that only fuels conflicts.
Furthermore, initiatives such as regional forums or African Union meetings could provide platforms to discuss and develop collaborative solutions to address the root causes of conflicts, namely poverty, lack of access to resources and economic injustices.
### Conclusion
The UPDF’s announcement to strengthen its defenses in the DRC is part of a broader dynamic of regional security. While this decision could be perceived as a preventive measure in the face of an immediate threat, its implementation will have to be carefully weighed so as not to exacerbate already existing tensions. It is imperative that long-term peace and security efforts focus not only on the military approach, but also on strengthening regional socio-political structures to build a sustainable, promising and serene future for all populations affected by this multifaceted and complex region.