On March 20, 2025, Uganda deployed additional military forces to South Sudan as part of “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya” in response to escalating conflict. The operation aims to support the South Sudanese government amid rising tensions with opposition groups. While Ugandan officials defend the intervention under a historical military pact, opposition activists raise concerns regarding its implications for regional stability.
Uganda has increased its military presence in South Sudan, deploying additional troops as part of “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya.” This comes amid escalating conflict between government forces and armed groups, particularly following recent fighting in Upper Nile State and political unrest in Juba. Acting army spokesperson Colonel Chris Magezi confirmed the deployment, emphasizing Uganda’s commitment to regional stability and support for the South Sudanese government forces.
The military operation commenced on March 11, 2025, with the initial insertion of special operations forces through Juba International Airport. Further reinforcements have since arrived via the Uganda-South Sudan border at Bibia and Nimule. Brigadier General Anthony Mbuusi Lukwago, a seasoned military officer with a background in counterinsurgency, oversees the operation.
The Ugandan government’s intervention is part of a longstanding bilateral military agreement aimed at combating threats such as the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Michael Makuei Leuth, defended the presence of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), viewing it as a necessary support mechanism based on this pact.
Despite official justifications, there are concerns among opposition activists who argue that Uganda’s military deployment fortifies President Salva Kiir’s government amidst rising tensions with opposition forces. The Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, emphasized Uganda’s allegiance to Kiir, warning that any opposition to him would be seen as a declaration of war against Uganda.
The conflict in South Sudan has recently escalated, particularly in Upper Nile State, where clashes involve the White Army, a powerful Nuer militia. Government forces have issued warnings to the militia, demanding they retreat from military zones or face military action. Authorities have characterized civilians remaining in conflict areas as negative forces, asserting that appropriate responses will follow.
In the political sphere, Uganda’s National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus has resolved to support the UPDF’s involvement in South Sudan to curtail further destabilization. However, the UN and other international bodies have yet to provide a formal response regarding Uganda’s justification for military action under the historical anti-LRA agreement.
In conclusion, Uganda’s military reinforcement in South Sudan under “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya” has raised significant attention amid the ongoing conflict involving government forces and the White Army militia. While the Ugandan government asserts its commitment to regional stability and support for its South Sudanese counterpart under a historical military pact, there exist concerns regarding the implications of its intervention. With opposition factions voicing apprehensions and the UN’s silence on the matter, the situation remains precarious and fraught with potential escalations.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
