[PRESS RELEASE] – SSPDF and UPDF Agree on Ceasefire After Border Clashes in Kajo Keji

(KAJO KEJI) – South Sudan’s national army, the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), has confirmed that its troops engaged in a brief exchange of fire with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) along a contested section of the border on Monday afternoon.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:25 PM on 28 July 2025 in Nyainga-Muda, located in Bori Boma, Kangapo Two Payam, within Kajo Keji County of Central Equatoria State. The area has previously been marked by periodic tensions related to border demarcation issues.

The brief but serious confrontation reportedly led to casualties on both sides. The exact number of those injured or killed has not been officially disclosed.

Following the incident, the leadership of both militaries took immediate steps to prevent any further escalation. South Sudan’s Chief of Defense Forces, General Dau Aturjong Nyuol, held a direct call with his Ugandan counterpart. According to a press statement issued by the SSPDF Directorate of Media and Press, the two commanders agreed to implement three key measures:

+An immediate halt to all hostile actions along the border.

+The establishment of a joint investigation team to examine the causes and circumstances of the confrontation.

+Continued efforts by the existing Joint Technical Border Committee to pursue peaceful resolutions to recurring disputes in the border region.

The incident has drawn renewed attention to the fragile security dynamics along the South Sudan–Uganda frontier. Kajo Keji County has historically been a hotspot for border related disagreements, especially in areas lacking clear demarcation.

While both Juba and Kampala refer to each other as “sisterly republics,” this latest flare up has underscored the volatility that remains in some shared border areas, particularly when military patrols operate near disputed zones.

The SSPDF spokesperson, Major General Lul Ruai Koang, who signed the press statement, reaffirmed South Sudan’s commitment to regional peace and cooperation. He called for calm among residents living near the affected areas and urged local leaders to support the de-escalation process.

The official statement comes as the two nations continue efforts to stabilise their shared borders through diplomatic and technical mechanisms.

The economic and human cost of such border disputes can be significant, especially for communities already grappling with insecurity, displacement and underdevelopment.

The clashes come at a time when South Sudan is facing widespread humanitarian challenges, with resources stretched thin across security and public service sectors.

There are also concerns that further incidents could disrupt local trade between border communities in Central Equatoria and northern Uganda. Trade routes and market access in this region are critical lifelines for both civilians and local economies.