Uganda and South Sudan Sign MoU to Resolve Border Conflicts

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed by Uganda and South Sudan to end border conflicts, promoting safety, economic development, and peaceful coexistence among border communities following a two-day meeting in Kitgum Municipality. The agreement addresses issues such as poaching, smuggling, and illegal firearms movement while emphasizing community empowerment and the importance of cross-border trade.

Uganda and South Sudan have recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at resolving the ongoing border conflicts that have troubled the region for years. This agreement was formalized during a two-day meeting in Kitgum Municipality, and it emphasizes the importance of safety, peaceful coexistence, and economic development for communities residing in border districts such as Lamwo, Kitgum, Amuru, Kaabong, and Karenga in Uganda, alongside the counties of Magwi, Budi, and Ikwoto in South Sudan. The MoU, finalized last Wednesday, is a response to the various conflicts that have plagued the area, including boundary disputes, poaching activities, civil unrest, smuggling operations, cattle rustling, and the unlawful possession of firearms. Mr. Akileo Mboya, the commissioner of Budi County and one of the signatories of the pact, expressed, “We discussed numerous issues that relate to collaborations, partnership, coordination, and ensuring safe and peaceful movement of the people along these frontiers. The core of all these is the social and economic empowerment of the people of our communities.” The Lamwo resident district commissioner, Mr. William Komakech, elaborated that the agreement also aims to enhance cross-border trade in alignment with East African protocols. He stated that the objective of the MoU is to foster harmony between the communities of South Sudan and Uganda. Implementation of the MoU will be overseen by district security committees within the respective areas, following their consensus during a cross-border security meeting that occurred with support from the Lutheran World Federation (LWF). The officials recognized the necessity to educate communities in South Sudan regarding issues such as poaching and smuggling, which have been identified as significant contributors to insecurity across the border. Mr. Geoffrey Filbert Ocailap, the Karenga resident district commissioner, highlighted the detrimental effect of poaching, stating, “Poaching is one of the things bringing us chaos between South Sudan and Uganda, poaching is causing the possession of illegal guns.” He further emphasized the prevalence of illegal firearms movement from South Sudan into Uganda, attributing some of the chaos among the youth to the consumption of illicit alcohol. Additionally, Mr. Benedict Lokoro Nyemuget, the youth chairperson of Budi County, reported tragic incidents involving youth who lost their lives while engaging in poaching activities, underscoring the urgent need for a change in mindset towards such practices. Representing the Palabek Settlement, Ms. Florence Amungo urged authorities to engage women in peace dialogues and to initiate community-building events like cultural and sports galas to enhance unity between refugees and host communities. Crucially, the MoU aims to prevent unlawful arrests at border points, facilitate unhindered movement of goods, combat corruption and extortion, restrict livestock movement during nighttime, enhance border security through patrols, advocate for the improvement of security road infrastructure, hasten the demarcation of borders, and eliminate illegal firearm trafficking. The signing ceremony included notable officials from both countries, reflecting cooperative efforts to fortify relationships and eliminate conflict at the border.

The recent MoU between Uganda and South Sudan emerges from a complex history marked by persistent border disputes and various forms of conflict, including poaching and smuggling, shaped by socio-economic challenges and regional instability. Previous engagements between the nations have focused on strengthening ties and addressing cross-border issues. The agreement seeks to create a framework for cooperation in promoting safety and economic development among border communities, which directly aligns with ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at fostering regional stability.

The signing of the MoU between Uganda and South Sudan represents a significant step towards resolving longstanding border conflicts. By prioritizing safety, peaceful coexistence, and economic collaboration, the agreement aims to empower local communities and enhance cross-border trade. With continuous oversight by district security committees and active community participation, there is optimism for improved relations and reduced tensions along the border, which have historically hindered development in the region.

Original Source: www.monitor.co.ug