Uganda, South Sudan Renew Commitment to Lasting Peace Along Shared Border

ARUA CITY, Uganda — Uganda and South Sudan have renewed their commitment to promoting lasting peace, security and socio-economic cooperation along their shared border following a high-level reconciliation meeting that brought together leaders and representatives from both countries.

The meeting, held on 25 July 2026 at Hotel Le-Confidentiel in Arua City, convened government officials, religious leaders, women and youth representatives, security officials and community leaders from Uganda and South Sudan to chart a lasting solution to the border dispute between Yumbe District and Kajo Keji County that has persisted for more than a decade.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi, the two governments adopted a number of resolutions aimed at strengthening peace, improving cross-border cooperation and fostering development in the affected communities.

Among the key resolutions was the re-demarcation of the disputed 6.12-kilometre border stretch between Yumbe and Kajo Keji. The meeting also agreed to organise a joint cultural and sports gala involving the Kuku and Aringa communities to promote reconciliation and unity. Other measures include strengthening joint intelligence operations and enhancing communication mechanisms to ensure timely reporting and management of cross-border incidents.

Speaking during the meeting, the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs in charge of Veteran Affairs, Hon. Huda Abason Oleru, commended Uganda and South Sudan for maintaining cordial relations that have enabled communities along the border to coexist peacefully, conduct trade and pursue development opportunities.

She reaffirmed the Government of Uganda’s commitment to implementing the resolutions adopted during the meeting and pledged to present the concerns and recommendations raised to the relevant national authorities to support sustainable peace in the border region.

Hon. Oleru also emphasised the need for increased investment in road infrastructure and modern markets, noting that improved connectivity would facilitate cross-border trade, stimulate economic growth and improve livelihoods.

In addition, she urged communities in the West Nile sub-region to preserve and revitalise their cultural heritage, particularly traditional foods and customs that have gradually declined over the years.

Representing the Government of South Sudan, the Governor of Central Equatoria State, Emmanuel Anthony Wani Andee Adi, called for the swift implementation of the agreed resolutions, saying this would deepen cooperation and strengthen peaceful coexistence between the neighbouring countries.

Uganda’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to South Sudan, H.E. Brigadier General Ronnie Balya, noted that many of the challenges affecting the Kajo Keji and Aringa communities originate from colonial-era border demarcations that separated people with shared historical, cultural and family ties.

He encouraged both communities to prioritise socio-economic development and peaceful coexistence instead of allowing minor land disputes to undermine their longstanding relationship.

The reconciliation meeting was attended by local leaders from Yumbe District and Kajo Keji County, alongside representatives of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), underscoring the two governments’ shared determination to secure lasting peace and stability along their common border.

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