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President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda had productive talks with South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir in Juba, focusing on peace, security, and socio-economic development.
The two leaders discussed ways to harmonise trade policies and enhance cross-border trade between Uganda and South Sudan.
Upon his arrival in Juba, President Museveni was warmly welcomed by President Kiir at Juba International Airport.
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Key figures at the reception included South Sudan’s Minister of Presidential Affairs, Chol Mawut Ajongo; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ramadan Muhammed Abdalla; and Minister of Defence, Chol Thon Balok.
From Uganda, President Museveni was greeted by Minister of Defence, Jacob Oboth Oboth; Senior Presidential Advisor on Defence and Security, Gen. Proscovia Nalweyiso; and Ugandan Ambassador to South Sudan, Brig. Gen. Ronnie Balya.
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The visit comes amid rising tensions in South Sudan, with President Kiir facing accusations over an alleged plot by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar to instigate rebellion. Machar is currently under house arrest.
Minister Oboth told Parliament that on March 10, President Kiir requested urgent military assistance from Uganda to help prevent a security crisis.
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In response, Uganda deployed the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) on a peace enforcement mission. Oboth emphasised that the decision reflects Uganda’s core values of patriotism, nationalism, and Pan-Africanism.