Uganda and South Sudan have signed a memorandum of understanding to resolve cross-border tensions by promoting safety, economic development, and peaceful coexistence. Among the key initiatives are measures against poaching, smuggling, and illegal firearms trafficking. Local security committees will oversee the pact’s implementation, emphasizing community involvement and cooperation for a sustainable peaceful environment.
The governments of Uganda and South Sudan have taken a significant step toward resolving their longstanding border disputes by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering peace and promoting economic development along their shared border. The signing ceremony, which took place last Wednesday in Kitgum Municipality, stemmed from a two-day meeting where leaders from both nations discussed various issues impacting their border communities. This MoU outlines commitments to ensure safety, prevent conflict, promote peaceful coexistence, and enhance economic collaboration between Uganda’s border districts of Lamwo, Kitgum, Amuru, Kaabong, and Karenga and South Sudan’s Magwi, Budi, and Ikwoto counties. The agreement addresses numerous challenges that have historically unsettled these border areas, including boundary disputes, poaching, illegal firearms possession, and civil conflict. Mr. Akileo Mboya, the commissioner of Budi County, expressed the importance of these discussions, stating, “We discussed numerous issues that relate to collaborations, partnership, coordination, and ensuring safe and peaceful movement of the people along these frontiers. The core of all these is the social and economic empowerment of the people of our communities.” In a remarkable display of unity, Ugandan officials, including Mr. William Komakech, the resident district commissioner of Lamwo, highlighted the MoU’s goal of fostering cross-border trade in line with East African Economic protocols. Local security committees will oversee the MoU’s implementation, as both countries emphasize the need for community engagement to address high stakes issues such as poaching and the illegal movement of goods and arms. Problematic behaviors such as smuggling and alcohol trafficking, identified as central to the unrest, were thoroughly discussed, with Mr. Geoffrey Filbert Ocailap, the Karenga resident district commissioner noting, “Poaching is causing the possession of illegal guns,” thus linking these activities to broader security concerns. The agreement is expected to enhance lawful movements across borders, protect community interests, and curb corruption at border points while calling for urgent enhancements in border security measures and infrastructure. The sentiment towards a collaborative, multifaceted peace-building approach was echoed by community representatives, including Ms. Florence Amungo, who urged for the inclusion of women’s voices in peace dialogues. As both nations move forward with this MoU, historical context reveals a commitment to addressing cross-border issues which have impeded economic progress and spurred conflicts in the region. A previous MoU signed last year also focused on safety and economic advancement for the border communities, illustrating an ongoing commitment to collaborative governance and peace.
The agreement between Uganda and South Sudan represents a culmination of efforts to resolve persistent tensions along their shared border, often marked by violence stemming from disputes over land, resources, and security challenges including poaching and the illegal arms trade. Over the years, both nations have recognized the need for structured dialogues and formal agreements to cultivate peace, enhance cooperation, and stimulate economic growth among their citizens. The MoU signed recently signifies a renewed commitment towards these objectives, with previous attempts also having laid the groundwork for improved relations.
In conclusion, the newly signed MoU between Uganda and South Sudan marks a pivotal advancement in addressing border disputes and community welfare along their shared frontier. With a focus on promoting peaceful coexistence, bolstering economic opportunities, and curbing illegal activities, this agreement aims to foster a secure environment for residents on both sides of the border. Enhanced cooperation between local authorities, community leaders, and security committees will be critical in ensuring the successful implementation of this pact, leading to greater stability and prosperity in the region.
Original Source: www.monitor.co.ug
