Kampala, Uganda – March 21, 2025Uganda’s Parliament has officially endorsed the government's decision to deploy the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) to neighboring South Sudan, following a heated plenary sitting held yesterday.
The approval came after Defense Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth presented the government's case, emphasizing that the deployment is in line with Uganda’s commitment to regional peace and security under the framework of the East African Community (EAC).
Uganda's Role in Regional Peacekeeping
In his address to Parliament, Minister Oboth Oboth explained that the deployment aims to assist South Sudan in stabilizing its fragile peace process, which has been under threat due to sporadic outbreaks of violence and political instability. He stressed that Uganda, as a key member of the EAC and IGAD (Intergovernmental Authority on Development), has a responsibility to promote peace within the region.
"The deployment of UPDF troops is not only a gesture of goodwill but a strategic move to safeguard Uganda’s own national security interests," the Minister said. "A stable South Sudan translates to a safer northern Uganda and enhances economic integration within East Africa."
Oboth Oboth also argued that the presence of Ugandan forces will provide support for ongoing humanitarian efforts and help secure vital trade routes, benefitting both countries.
Parliament’s Support and Justification
After extensive deliberations, Members of Parliament overwhelmingly agreed with the Minister’s reasoning. Many legislators expressed confidence in the UPDF’s capabilities, pointing to previous successful missions in Somalia under AMISOM and past involvement in South Sudan as proof of Uganda's commitment to peacekeeping.
Hon. Jane Aceng, MP for Lira City, remarked, “This deployment reflects Uganda’s position as a leader in promoting stability in the region. We must remember that insecurity in South Sudan affects not just them but also Uganda directly, particularly through refugee flows and border trade disruptions.”
Several MPs also highlighted how such missions foster a sense of patriotism and unity among Ugandan troops, while enhancing the country’s diplomatic standing globally.
Details of the Deployment
While the specific number of troops and timeline were not publicly disclosed for security reasons, the Ministry of Defense assured Parliament that the deployment would be conducted in close coordination with South Sudanese authorities and international partners.
Minister Oboth Oboth assured the House that the operation would be fully funded within the existing defense budget and that no additional taxes would be levied on Ugandans to support the mission.
Public Reaction and Next Steps
Following the Parliament's endorsement, the UPDF is expected to begin preparations for immediate deployment. Meanwhile, reactions among the general public have been mixed, with some citizens expressing concern over the risks to Ugandan soldiers, while others commend the government’s proactive stance in promoting regional stability.
Regional analysts have welcomed the move, noting that Uganda’s involvement could provide a crucial stabilizing force in South Sudan’s delicate peace process, particularly ahead of the country’s scheduled elections.
The Ministry of Defense is expected to issue further briefings in the coming weeks to provide updates on the mission's progress.
