Uganda has sent additional military forces to South Sudan as part of “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya” to support government forces amid rising conflict. This deployment follows fresh violence, particularly in Upper Nile State, and is backed by a historical military agreement. While officials endorse the operation, opposition figures question Uganda’s motivations, asserting it aims to strengthen President Kiir’s regime as conflict escalates.
On March 20, 2025, Uganda announced an increase in military forces deployed to South Sudan under “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya.” This action is a response to an intensified conflict between South Sudan’s government and various armed groups. The deployment follows recent clashes in Upper Nile State and political unrest in Juba, signaling a significant concern for regional stability.
Acting army spokesman Col. Chris Magezi confirmed the reinforcement, emphasizing the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) commitment to supporting South Sudanese government troops. Initially, special operations forces were dispatched via Juba International Airport on March 11, 2025, with subsequent troop movements through Bibia and Nimule at the Uganda-South Sudan border.
The operation is directed by Brig. Gen. Anthony Mbuusi Lukwago, an officer experienced in counterinsurgency, having previously commanded operations under AUSSOM in Somalia. The deployment has ignited regional discussions, with South Sudan defending it by referencing a historic bilateral military agreement aimed at combating various insurgent groups, notably the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).
According to South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Michael Makuei Leuth, the UPDF’s activities are a continuation of this security arrangement, indicating that their presence consists of support and technical units to assist the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF). Amidst these justifications, opposition activists view the deployment as a means to bolster President Salva Kiir’s authority in light of rising tensions within the country.
Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, declared that any threats against Kiir’s administration would be perceived as acts of war against Uganda. He stated, “We the UPDF only recognize one President of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir… Any move against him is a declaration of war against Uganda.” Escalating violence in South Sudan continues due to conflicts involving the White Army militia, intensifying concerns over civilian safety in military zones.
Minister Makuei has warned the White Army to withdraw from designated military areas or face serious consequences. He also cautioned that civilians found in these zones would be regarded as hostile forces, warranting governmental action. The atmosphere remains tense as the government has ordered the militia to vacate critical assembly points designated in military zones.
The Uganda National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus has endorsed the UPDF’s deployment, viewing it as necessary to avert further instability in South Sudan. The international community, including the UN, has not yet officially addressed Uganda’s justification for its military presence under the historical anti-LRA agreement.
Uganda’s military reinforcement in South Sudan under Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya aims to support government forces amid escalating conflict. Col. Chris Magezi announced a focus on regional stability while the operation’s command lies with Brig. Gen. Lukwago. The military presence is defended as rooted in historical agreements, yet it faces criticism from opposition groups. Tensions from clashes with the White Army continue to pose challenges to security in the region, with the NRM supporting the deployment to help stabilize the situation.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
