In a significant move to address rising tensions in South Sudan, Uganda’s Parliament has approved the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to the neighboring country. The decision came after a motion was presented by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth, during a parliamentary session on Thursday, 20 March 2025. The session was presided over by Speaker Anita Among.

The motion sought parliamentary endorsement for the UPDF’s mission in South Sudan, where violent unrest erupted in Upper Nile State at the beginning of March. The situation prompted South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir, to urgently request military assistance from Uganda’s President, Yoweri Museveni. According to Oboth, President Kiir’s request was made on 10 March 2025, in line with existing agreements between the two nations, including the Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation and the Status of Forces Agreement.

Oboth explained that President Museveni authorized the deployment of UPDF troops as a peace enforcement mission to prevent a potential security crisis in South Sudan. He emphasized that this decision was made under the constitutional authority granted to the President by the Ugandan Constitution and the UPDF Act. The minister also highlighted Uganda’s commitment to regional stability, rooted in the principles of patriotism, nationalism, and Pan-Africanism.

“This deployment was undertaken in the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity, and the deep-rooted historical and regional connections between the two nations,” Oboth stated. He further stressed that the UPDF’s presence in South Sudan is not only crucial for the stability of the region but also for Uganda’s own security and economic interests. He warned that the ongoing unrest in South Sudan could have severe economic, social, and political consequences for Uganda if left unaddressed.

The minister reminded Parliament of the UPDF’s previous successful missions in South Sudan, where they played a key role in stabilizing security, enforcing peace, and protecting lives. “The deployment of the UPDF in South Sudan has previously played a crucial role in preventing further conflict escalation. This intervention benefits not only Uganda but also the wider region and the African continent,” he asserted.

The motion received strong support from several legislators, including Hon. Gilbert Olanya of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), who represents Kilak South County. Olanya urged his colleagues to back the deployment, emphasizing its importance for both South Sudan and Uganda. “Anyone hailing from Acholi or West Nile would strongly support the UPDF’s presence in South Sudan. For the sake of peace for the people of Northern Uganda and those engaged in business across the border, let us fully support this initiative,” he said.

Olanya also pointed out that the UPDF’s mission in South Sudan would not only help stabilize the neighboring country but also protect Uganda’s own peace and security. He noted that Northern Uganda, which shares a border with South Sudan, has historically been affected by cross-border conflicts. By sending troops to South Sudan, Uganda aims to prevent the spillover of violence and ensure the safety of its citizens living near the border.

The parliamentary approval of the UPDF deployment reflects Uganda’s longstanding commitment to regional peace and security. Over the years, Uganda has played a key role in mediating conflicts and providing military support to stabilize neighboring countries. The UPDF’s involvement in South Sudan is seen as a continuation of this tradition, with the ultimate goal of fostering peace and stability in the region.

The decision also underscores the close ties between Uganda and South Sudan, two nations with deep historical and cultural connections. South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011, and Uganda has been a key ally in its journey toward stability. However, South Sudan has faced numerous challenges since its independence, including internal conflicts and political instability. Uganda’s intervention is aimed at addressing these challenges and supporting South Sudan’s efforts to achieve lasting peace.

As the UPDF prepares for its mission in South Sudan, many Ugandans are hopeful that the deployment will bring positive outcomes for both countries. The move has been widely praised as a demonstration of Uganda’s leadership in promoting peace and security in the region. With the backing of Parliament, the UPDF is set to play a critical role in restoring stability and preventing further conflict in South Sudan.

The approval of the UPDF deployment to South Sudan marks a significant step in Uganda’s efforts to support regional peace and security. The decision reflects the country’s commitment to its neighbors and its determination to address conflicts that threaten the stability of the region. As the UPDF embarks on this mission, the hope is that their presence will not only bring peace to South Sudan but also strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.