South Sudan and Uganda Launch Joint Measures After Deadly Border Clash

(KAJO KEJI) – Military chiefs from South Sudan and Uganda have agreed to immediate steps aimed at easing tensions after a deadly exchange of gunfire along the border between the two countries. The confrontation occurred on Monday, 28 July 2025, in Kangapo II Payam, Kajo Keji County, located in Central Equatoria State.

The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) were involved in the incident, which left casualties on both sides. Five soldiers have been confirmed killed in South Sudan.

Major General Lul Ruai Koang, spokesperson for the SSPDF, issued a press statement on Tuesday confirming the incident. According to the statement, South Sudan’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Dau Aturjong Nyuol, contacted his Ugandan counterpart shortly after the fighting ended. The two commanders agreed to a number of steps aimed at de-escalating the situation.

These include an immediate ceasefire, the formation of a joint investigation team and continued efforts by the Joint Technical Border Committee to address the underlying causes of the conflict.

Although the statement did not detail what triggered the confrontation, local officials in Kajo Keji said it was likely the result of a long-standing dispute over the location of the border. The area has seen repeated disagreements between communities and security forces on both sides of the frontier.

Kajo Keji County Commissioner reports indicate that the attack on Monday led to the displacement of thousands of civilians, with several believed to have died during the clashes. Residents fled villages in the affected areas, seeking safety further inland. Local authorities are now working with humanitarian agencies to assess the extent of the displacement and provide urgent relief.

Military leaders from both countries have emphasised their commitment to peace and regional cooperation.

The incident has drawn concern from humanitarian organisations, who fear that further displacement could overwhelm already strained local capacities. Central Equatoria has hosted several waves of displaced families in recent years and basic services remain limited.

No further clashes have been reported since Monday.