Uganda Increases Military Deployment in South Sudan Amid Rising Tensions
Uganda has deployed more military forces to South Sudan under “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya” amid rising conflict. The UPDF confirms its mission aims to support South Sudanese forces, while critics argue the deployment bolsters President Salva Kiir’s government. Intense clashes continue, particularly with the White Army, leading to government warnings about military zones.
On March 20, 2025, Uganda announced the deployment of additional military forces to South Sudan under “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya,” aimed at reinforcing its military presence in response to escalating violence between government forces and armed factions. This troop movement comes in the wake of clashes in Upper Nile State and ongoing political instability in Juba.
Col. Chris Magezi, acting spokesman for the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), confirmed the deployment, emphasizing the military’s commitment to regional stability and support for South Sudanese government forces. He relayed the UPDF Commander Land Forces, Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga’s briefing to the deployed troops at the 4 Infantry Division Headquarters in Gulu, where he urged them to remain vigilant and prepared for their mission.
The operation commenced on March 11, 2025, with the initial insertion of special operations forces through Juba International Airport. Subsequently, additional UPDF elements have been deployed via the Uganda-South Sudan border at Bibia and Nimule. Brig. Gen. Anthony Mbuusi Lukwago, who commands the operation, brings extensive counterinsurgency experience, having previously led operations under the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
This increased military presence has triggered a regional debate, although the Juba government defends the intervention by referencing a longstanding military agreement established to address various security threats, including the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Michael Makuei Leuth, reaffirmed that the UPDF deployment is consistent with this bilateral military pact, describing the incoming forces as supportive and technical units.
Critics, however, assert that Uganda’s actions primarily aim to bolster President Salva Kiir’s regime amidst rising tensions with opposition factions. Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, stated that any opposition to President Kiir would be interpreted as a “declaration of war against Uganda. ”
The South Sudan crisis has intensified due to renewed fighting between government troops and the White Army, a prominent Nuer militia, with alarming reports of violence in Upper Nile State. Recently, a UN helicopter was attacked, resulting in the death of a crew member and a high-ranking general. Minister Makuei issued warnings to the White Army, demanding their withdrawal from military zones or facing military action.
The government has directed the White Army to deploy away from critical assembly areas, particularly in regions like Nelson, prone to intense fighting. Parallelly, Uganda’s National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus has expressed support for the UPDF deployment, highlighting the necessity to avert further instability. The international community, including the UN, has yet to respond to Uganda’s justification of the military action under the historical anti-LRA agreement.
In conclusion, Uganda’s deployment of additional military forces to South Sudan under Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya reflects its commitment to countering escalating violence and supporting South Sudanese government forces. While the intervention is justified by both governments citing a longstanding military agreement, it has also drawn criticism for allegedly reinforcing President Salva Kiir’s regime. As violence intensifies in South Sudan, particularly involving clashes with the White Army, the response from international actors remains awaited.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
