Uganda significantly increased its military presence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in early February. The country deployed over 1,000 additional soldiers near the conflict zone where Congolese forces are fighting Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, bringing Uganda's total deployment to approximately 4,000–5,000 troops.

Ugandan forces subsequently entered Bunia in support of local troops. The development has drawn mixed reactions from regional observers. Uganda has stated its commitment to stabilising the region and supporting the DRC government.