Ugandan Army Deploys to Mahagi in Northeastern DR Congo Amid Escalating Conflict

The Ugandan military has confirmed the deployment of troops to Mahagi, a town in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as part of ongoing efforts to combat local armed groups and prevent the escalation of regional conflict. 

This move follows recent operations in the area, including the deployment of Ugandan forces to Bunia, the capital of Ituri province, to support Congolese troops in maintaining security. 

On Sunday, March 2, 2025, Uganda's defense and military affairs spokesperson, Felix Kulayigye, announced that Ugandan troops had entered Mahagi and established control over the town. This deployment was conducted in coordination with the Congolese government, aiming to address the activities of local militias responsible for recent violence in the region. 

In February 2025, Ugandan forces entered Bunia to assist local troops in curbing violence perpetrated by armed groups. 

This joint operation aimed to secure the city and its surrounding areas, which have been plagued by conflicts involving various militias. 

The deployment of Ugandan troops to multiple locations in northeastern DRC underscores the complexity of the security situation in the region. The presence of various armed groups, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and the M23 rebels, has contributed to instability, prompting neighboring countries to intervene. 

Analysts express concerns that such interventions could lead to a broader regional conflict reminiscent of past wars in the area. 

The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for coordinated efforts to restore peace and stability in the DRC and the broader Great Lakes region.