A coordinated cross-border operation between the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and South Sudanese military authorities has resulted in the return of 13 Ugandans from South Sudan, in an exercise officials say demonstrates continued regional security cooperation and efforts to support rehabilitation and reintegration.
The returnees, comprising 11 adults and two children, were repatriated following joint coordination between the UPDF Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Maj. Gen. Richard Otto, and his South Sudanese counterpart in military intelligence.
Upon arrival in Uganda, the group was received by Resident City Commissioner Ambrose Onario, who represented the State Minister for Northern Uganda.
Addressing the returnees, Onario called for reconciliation and long-term social reintegration, urging them to focus on rebuilding their lives and embracing new opportunities.
“When we heal together, we grow together,” he said, encouraging the returnees to look towards a future grounded in hope and opportunity.
He also commended all institutions and stakeholders involved in facilitating the repatriation process.
Following their reception, the returnees were handed over to Terra Renaissance, a rehabilitation and reintegration organisation led by Japanese national Shingo, which will oversee their recovery and reintegration into civilian life.
According to officials, the organisation will provide structured rehabilitation programmes focused on mindset transformation, vocational training and life-skills development aimed at supporting sustainable livelihoods.
The returnees are also expected to benefit from government empowerment programmes, including the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga.
The Prime Minister of Ker Kwaro Acholi, Martin Okumu, praised the UPDF for facilitating the safe return of the Ugandans and urged communities across Northern Uganda to receive them without stigma or discrimination.
He noted that the region has moved beyond years of conflict and described the returnees as members of the same community deserving support and acceptance.
“These are our family members and part of one community,” he said.
Religious leaders also welcomed the development.
Sheikh Musa Kalimu, the Assistant Mufti of the Acholi Sub-region, speaking on behalf of the Acholi Religious Leaders Peace Initiative, commended the repatriation effort and acknowledged the role of President Yoweri Museveni in supporting peace processes that facilitated peaceful returns during and after the Lord’s Resistance Army insurgency.
Security agencies used the occasion to caution Ugandans against individuals and groups that lure people with false promises of employment, financial gain or other opportunities.
Authorities warned that such schemes have previously resulted in some Ugandans being exploited or recruited into armed conflicts outside the country.
The successful repatriation is being viewed by officials as a reflection of ongoing cooperation between Uganda and South Sudan on security, intelligence-sharing and humanitarian matters, while also highlighting the importance of rehabilitation and community support for those returning home.