Kajo-Keji, South Sudan | The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) has confirmed a deadly exchange of gunfire with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) along the volatile border in Kajo-Keji County, Central Equatoria, on Monday, July 28. 

The clash, which occurred in Kangapo Two Payam, resulted in casualties on both sides, though the exact numbers have not been disclosed.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang acknowledged the incident and announced de-escalation measures agreed upon by military leaders from both nations.

“Elements from the armies of two sisterly republics of South Sudan and Uganda exchanged fires which resulted in both sides taking casualties,” Koang said. 

“South Sudan Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Dau Aturjon, contacted his Ugandan counterpart, and as a result, the two agreed on taking steps aimed at stopping further crises.”

The agreed measures include:

• Immediate cessation of hostilities between the two forces;
• Formation of a joint investigation committee to determine the root causes of the confrontation;
• Pursuit of peaceful resolution to long-standing border disputes through continued dialogue.

Tension

This latest incident adds to a pattern of sporadic confrontations and diplomatic strain along the Uganda–South Sudan border, particularly in the Kajo-Keji–Moyo axis.

Border tensions between the two countries have persisted since South Sudan gained independence in 2011, largely due to unclear demarcation and competing claims over grazing lands and territory by local communities.

In previous years, civilians and local leaders have accused both armies of unauthorized incursions and arbitrary arrests.

In 2020 and 2022, similar incidents were reported in the same Central Equatoria region, prompting temporary troop withdrawals and bilateral meetings that failed to yield lasting resolutions.

In some cases, the disputes have also drawn in armed pastoralist groups and contributed to displacement, especially during the dry season when cross-border cattle migration peaks.

Analysts have warned that without a final demarcation of the international boundary and formalized security cooperation mechanisms, localized incidents could escalate into wider regional instability.

While both Juba and Kampala maintain strong diplomatic and economic ties — with Uganda being a key trade partner and contributor to South Sudan’s peacekeeping missions — the militarization of disputed border zones remains a flashpoint.

The newly formed joint investigation team is expected to visit the scene of the clash this week, gather testimonies, and submit findings that will inform further diplomatic action.

No official comment has yet been issued by the Ugandan military, but previous joint statements have affirmed both countries’ commitment to peaceful coexistence.

Zoomer South Sudan Editorial