Uganda has deployed additional troops to South Sudan as part of “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya” in response to escalating conflict. This move is backed by a long-standing military pact, but has raised concerns among opposition forces and sparked debates about its true motivations in light of ongoing tensions within the region.
On March 20, 2025, Uganda announced the deployment of additional military forces to South Sudan as part of “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya” in response to escalating conflict between government forces and armed groups. This troop movement follows recent fighting in Upper Nile State alongside renewed political instability in Juba. Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Acting Army Spokesman Col. Chris Magezi affirmed their dedication to regional stability and support for South Sudanese government forces.
The mission began on March 11, 2025, with the insertion of special operations forces via Juba International Airport; subsequent UPDF task force elements have entered through Bibia and Nimule along the Uganda-South Sudan border. The operation is commanded by Brig. Gen. Anthony Mbuusi Lukwago, an experienced officer in counterinsurgency operations. The reinforcement of Ugandan troops has generated regional debate; however, the South Sudanese government has defended this intervention based on a longstanding military pact between the two nations.
South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Michael Makuei Leuth, reiterated this pact, emphasizing that it facilitates cooperation against threats such as the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). He expressed that the UPDF’s presence is an extension of this arrangement, stating, “The UPDF forces that arrived in Juba are support units and technical units. They have come to support their brothers and sisters in the SSPDF.”
Opposition activists contend that Uganda’s military presence primarily aims to bolster President Salva Kiir’s regime amidst increasing tension from opposition forces. Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, recently asserted that any actions against President Kiir would be viewed as a “declaration of war against Uganda.”
As the conflict escalates, clashes between South Sudan’s government troops and the White Army—a powerful Nuer militia—continue to pose significant threats. Tensions heightened following an attack on a UN helicopter in Upper Nile State, resulting in casualties, including the death of a crew member and a South Sudanese general. Minister Makuei has mandated the White Army to vacate government military zones or face decisive action against them.
Amid the ongoing turbulence, Uganda’s National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus has endorsed the UPDF’s deployment, citing imperative measures to avert further instability. Meanwhile, international organizations, including the UN, have yet to formally address Uganda’s justification for its military presence under the bilateral accord.
In summary, Uganda’s deployment of military forces to South Sudan under “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya” is primarily aimed at supporting the South Sudanese government amidst a backdrop of escalating violence and political instability. Although framed by historical military agreements, this intervention has sparked controversy and resistance among opposition groups, while the international community remains largely silent on the matter. The dynamics of the situation continue to evolve as both the military conflict and regional relations develop.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
