On September 28, 2024, Ugandan army chief General Muhoozi Kainerugaba met with South Sudanese counterpart General Santino Deng Wol in Kampala to discuss regional security issues and strengthen military relations, especially in light of recent border tensions. Both sides acknowledged their historical relationship and expressed commitment to mitigating conflicts arising from colonial-era border disputes.
On September 28, 2024, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) of Uganda, met with his South Sudanese counterpart, General Santino Deng Wol, in Kampala. The discussions, as stated by the CDF’s office, centered around regional security matters of mutual concern. Both military leaders recognized the enduring relationship between Uganda and South Sudan, pledging to further strengthen military cooperation. This meeting is particularly significant in light of recent tensions and border clashes between the two nations, in which the South Sudanese army has accused the Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF) of territorial violations. These border disputes stem from historical agreements established during colonial times, which failed to consider the input of local communities, leading to ongoing ethnic tensions in regions such as Lamwo, Nimule, Kajo-Keji, and Moyo district. The Ugandan delegation included key military figures such as Deputy CDF Lieutenant General Sam Okiding, Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Charles Okidi, Deputy Commander of Land Forces Major General Francis Takirwa, and Chief of Defense Intelligence and Security Major General James Birungi. Similarly, General Wol was accompanied by senior officials from the South Sudanese army.
The relationship between Uganda and South Sudan has been complex, shaped by historical territorial disputes and military collaborations. The border skirmishes reported recently reflect longstanding tensions originating from colonial-era border demarcations that did not account for local ethnic realities. These disputes have often escalated to violence, necessitating dialogue and diplomatic engagements between military leaders. Given the strategic importance of both nations in East Africa, maintaining stable military relations is vital for regional peace and security.
The meeting between the Ugandan and South Sudanese army chiefs underscores the importance of dialogue in resolving ongoing border tensions. By committing to strengthen military relations, both leaders aim to avert potential conflicts and foster mutual security interests in the region. Continuous engagement between the two countries is crucial to address historical grievances and collaborate on security challenges.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
