On March 20, 2025, Uganda deployed additional military forces to South Sudan under Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya to support government troops amid rising conflicts. This deployment, justified by a longstanding military agreement, aims to maintain regional stability but faces criticism from opposition factions. Uganda emphasizes its commitment to supporting President Kiir’s government, escalating tensions with opposition forces.
As of March 20, 2025, Uganda has escalated its military involvement by deploying more forces to South Sudan under ‘Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya.’ This decision comes amid intensifying conflict and turmoil, particularly following clashes in Upper Nile State and political unrest in Juba. The UPDF (Uganda People’s Defence Force) is focused on supporting South Sudanese government forces to maintain regional stability.
Col. Chris Magezi, the acting army spokesman, confirmed that the UPDF is committed to regional stability. He asserted that troops, briefed by Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, are reassured for the mission ahead. The briefing occurred at the 4 Infantry Division Headquarters in Gulu.
Since the operation began on March 11, 2025, special forces have been deployed via Juba International Airport, with additional UPDF units entering through border points at Bibia and Nimule. Brig. Gen. Anthony Mbuusi Lukwago leads the operation, drawing on his extensive experience in counterinsurgency operations.
The deployment has reignited discussions within the region about Uganda’s military role in South Sudan. The South Sudanese government supports the UPDF presence, emphasizing an old military pact established to combat forces like the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). Minister of Information Michael Makuei defended the operation, describing it as an extension of their historical security alliance.
Opposition groups criticize this deployment as a means to solidify President Salva Kiir’s government against rising opposition. Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba asserted that any threats to Kiir would be met with severity, stating that Uganda recognizes Kiir as the legitimate president of South Sudan.
The persistent crisis has escalated, especially following skirmishes between government forces and the White Army militia. Recent violence left a UN helicopter attacked, resulting in casualties including a high-ranking general. Minister Makuei has warned the White Army to vacate military zones or face consequences for their armed resistance.
In response to these developments, Uganda’s National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus has passed a resolution supporting UPDF’s deployment, underlining the need for stability. The international response, particularly from the UN, remains to be seen regarding Uganda’s strategic military justification under the anti-LRA agreement.
Uganda’s recent military deployment to South Sudan aims to stabilize a country facing escalating violence and political strife. Under Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya, Uganda stresses support for South Sudanese forces while asserting its historical military agreements. Despite the government’s defense of this intervention, critics view it as a strategy to bolster President Kiir’s regime against opposition forces. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for regional stability as conflicts continue.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
