The UPDF Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has held high-level discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir at State House in Juba focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and regional stability.
Gen Kainerugaba arrived in Juba earlier on Saturday morning and was received by his South Sudanese counterpart at the Juba International Airport.
Following brief talks, the he proceeded to State House for the presidential meeting.
After meeting President Kiir, the CDF visited the tactical headquarters of Operation Mlinzi Wa Kimya, a Swahili phrase meaning "Silent Guardian," where he interacted with Ugandan troops and commanders overseeing the mission.
He was later joined by South Sudan’s vice president, with whom he held further discussions on security cooperation.
These engagements underscore the deepening military and security partnership between Kampala and Juba.
Uganda has played a key role in supporting South Sudan’s stability, including the UPDF’s deployment at the request of the South Sudanese government following clashes between rebel forces and government troops.
UPDF deployed in South Sudan in March over fears the country could descend into civil war after tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar were boiling again as the power-sharing deal unraveled, leading to clashes.
The two signed a peace deal in 2018 to bring a five-year civil war to an end but early this year, tensions rose again, prompting UPDF to deploy in the continent's youngest nation to help secure the government in Juba.
Thanks to the UPDF’s intervention, calm has since been restored.
Speaking on Saturday, President Kiir expressed appreciation to Gen Muhoozi for Uganda’s role in maintaining peace in Africa’s youngest nation, acknowledging the UPDF’s contributions to regional security.
Beyond security cooperation, South Sudan remains a vital trading partner for Uganda, with Juba ranking among the top destinations for Ugandan exports, including construction materials, textiles, and other commodities.
Gen Muhoozi who is also the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with South Sudan.
This visit marks the latest in a series of diplomatic engagements by Gen Kainerugaba to bolster Uganda’s regional partnerships.
Recently, the Ugandan leader held talks with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa, further advancing peace and stability initiatives across the continent.