For over a week, a sit-down strike by long-distance truck drivers at the Elegu border post between Uganda and South Sudan has brought regional trade to a halt.
The drivers, vital to transporting goods across the region, have parked their vehicles in protest over excessive roadblocks and extortion in South Sudan.
Drivers report facing harassment, intimidation, and rampant corruption at about 50 checkpoints between Nimule and Juba.
Officials from various forces, including traffic police, CID, and the army, allegedly demand bribes at nearly every stop.
“You can find five different forces at one checkpoint, all asking for money,” said Suudi Mwatela, chairperson of the Long-Distance Drivers Association in Elegu.
“There are about 50 checkpoints from the border to Juba, and the demands are endless.”
The strike has caused hundreds of trucks to line up, stretching from Bibia Trading Centre to the Elegu border, disrupting activities in nearby towns like Atiak and Pabbo.
The drivers demand action against illegal fees, including a $70 road charge and additional fees levied by South Sudan’s fire department and immigration offices.
Efforts to resolve the crisis have seen engagement from officials on both sides of the border.
Major General Paul Nang Majok, head of South Sudan’s Joint Defense Committee, met with Ugandan officials, including Amuru’s Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Geoffrey Osborn Ochieng, to address the grievances.
The South Sudanese government has promised to eliminate unnecessary roadblocks and cancel several illegal charges.
“We agreed that the truck drivers should resume operations,” said RDC Ochieng. “Any unresolved issues will be reviewed by a joint committee.”
However, many drivers remain unconvinced, citing unresolved safety concerns. “We need a South Sudan official to assure us of safety,” said Ahmed, a driver.
“Without that, I am not moving.”
The strike is not only affecting drivers but also the regional economy. Simon Tumwesigye, a manager at Uganda Revenue Authority’s customs department, warned that prolonged delays could lead to revenue losses and increased risks, particularly with fuel trucks stranded at the yard.
Despite diplomatic assurances, the strike has yet to end, with truck lines now stretching nearly 18 kilometers from the border.