Uganda’s embassy in Kinshasa has been attacked by protesters, resulting in the looting of office property, including chairs, desks, and curtains, according to Uganda’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Okello Oryem.
The attack comes amid escalating tensions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) following claims by the M23 rebels that they have seized control of Goma, a strategic city in North Kivu province.
Protestors, reportedly angered by allegations of foreign involvement in the conflict, stormed the Ugandan diplomatic mission, leading to significant damage.
The US, Rwandan and French embassies were also attacked.
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Regional Tensions Escalate
The attack follows heightened instability in eastern DRC, where the M23 rebel group has intensified its military operations. Thousands of civilians have been displaced, sparking a humanitarian crisis and deepening concerns over regional security. The DRC government has repeatedly accused neighboring Rwanda supporting the M23.
Uganda has played a diplomatic role in efforts to stabilize eastern DRC, including participating in regional peace talks.
Diplomatic Response
Minister Okello Oryem condemned the attack and called on the DRC government to ensure the protection of Uganda’s diplomatic mission in accordance with international law. “We urge the Congolese authorities to take immediate steps to safeguard our embassy and personnel,” he said.
The Ugandan government is closely monitoring the situation and assessing the safety of its diplomatic staff in Kinshasa. No injuries have been reported so far.
