Overview:
Uganda's new ambassador to the DRC, Kaliisa, prioritizes addressing the significant trade imbalance and fostering greater economic cooperation between the two nations.
KINSHASA — Uganda’s newly appointed Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo, H.E. Farid Kaliisa, presented his credentials to President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi on Thursday, signaling a commitment to strengthening economic ties and addressing trade dynamics between the two nations.
During the Statehouse ceremony in Kinshasa, Ambassador Kaliisa conveyed greetings from Ugandan President Yoweri K. Museveni. President Tshisekedi welcomed Kaliisa, acknowledging the importance of strong bilateral relations for regional stability and economic growth.
A key focus of the discussions centered on the existing trade imbalance, which heavily favors Uganda. According to 2024 data from the Bank of Uganda, Uganda’s exports to the DRC reached $540 million, while DRC’s exports to Uganda totaled less than $100 million. Uganda’s primary exports include construction materials, beverages, and agricultural products.
Ambassador Kaliisa underscored Uganda’s commitment to fostering a more balanced and mutually beneficial economic relationship. Both leaders acknowledged the progress in trade and business, particularly in border areas, and the potential for further growth through joint infrastructure projects like the Mbarara-Ishaka-Pondwe-Beni-Kisangani road network. These projects are seen as vital for facilitating trade and economic integration.
President Tshisekedi assured Ambassador Kaliisa of his support and noted the importance of addressing challenges that hinder economic progress. He also expressed sadness over the January 2025 attack on the Ugandan embassy, pledging support for its restoration and the security of diplomatic personnel.
The leaders also discussed the removal of entry visa requirements between the two countries, a decision reached during the Uganda-DRC Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) in Kinshasa in October 2023. Ambassador Kaliisa noted Uganda’s implementation of the visa waiver and expressed hope for reciprocal action from the DRC. The next JPC meeting is scheduled for 2025 in Kampala, where further discussions on trade and economic cooperation are expected.
Both President Tshisekedi and Ambassador Kaliisa emphasized the role of regional stability in fostering economic development and reiterated their commitment to addressing challenges, including security concerns in eastern DRC, to create a more conducive environment for trade and investment.