Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, held high-level discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir at State House in Juba on Saturday afternoon, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and regional stability.
Gen Kainerugaba arrived in Juba earlier in the morning and was received by his South Sudanese counterpart at the Juba International Airport. Following brief talks, the Ugandan General proceeded to State House for the presidential meeting.
After meeting President Kiir, the CDF visited the tactical headquarters of Operation Mlinzi Wa Kimya, a Swahili phrase meaning “Silent Guardian,” where he interacted with Ugandan troops and commanders overseeing the mission. He was later joined by South Sudan’s Vice President, with whom he held further discussions on security cooperation.
These engagements underscore the deepening military and security partnership between Kampala and Juba. Uganda has played a key role in supporting South Sudan’s stability, including the UPDF’s deployment at the request of the South Sudanese government following clashes between rebel forces and government troops. Thanks to the UPDF’s intervention, calm has since been restored.
President Kiir expressed his appreciation to Gen Kainerugaba for Uganda’s role in maintaining peace in Africa’s youngest nation, acknowledging the UPDF’s contributions to regional security. Beyond security cooperation, South Sudan remains a vital trading partner for Uganda, with Juba ranking among the top destinations for Ugandan exports, including construction materials, textiles, and other commodities.
Gen Kainerugaba, who is also the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with South Sudan.
This visit marks the latest in a series of diplomatic engagements by Gen Kainerugaba to bolster Uganda’s regional partnerships. Recently, the Ugandan leader held talks with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa, further advancing peace and stability initiatives across the continent.