By Alan Clement
A delegation of government officials led by the Commissioner and Chair of Kajo-keji County’s Security Committee, Wani Jackson Mule, has visited areas affected by the recent wave of displacement.
The visit was intended to assess the humanitarian situation and reaffirm the government’s commitment to the welfare and protection of its citizens following armed confrontations on July 28 between a joint South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) detachment and forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in Nyainga-Muda village triggering the displacement of over 1000 households.
Commissioner Mule urged calm and unity among the displaced, emphasizing the government’s commitment to peaceful resolution and humanitarian support. “We encourage our people to remain calm, avoid retaliation, and share available resources,” said commissioner adding that, “The local, state, and national governments are working tirelessly to address this situation through diplomatic channels and to mobilize relief support.”
The IDPs are currently sheltered at 6 locations including, Logo and Sokare in Liwolo Payam (Episcopal Diocese of Liwolo), and Mereguga, Bori Primary/Secondary School, Wota-kujong, and Sunyu in Bori Boma of Kangapo II Payam.
Officially regrettably confirmed that three (3) children were separated from their parents and are currently unaccompanied with two (2) now being cared for by the Episcopal Diocese in Romogi and another one being cared for by a neighbor in Sunyu.
Brigadier General Henry Buri, SSPDF Area Commander in Kajokeji, acknowledged the trauma caused by the incident and called for patience. “The impact on the community is shocking, but both governments are engaging diplomatically to resolve the dispute peacefully,” he stated.
The County Police Inspector, Colonel Nathaniel Mawa, confirmed that security has since stabilized in the area following de-escalation agreements reached between the security leaderships of South Sudan and Uganda on July 29. He assured that, “Calm has been restored, and both countries are cooperating to prevent further tensions.”
Speaking on behalf of community elders, Muki Batali expressed dismay over the timing of the confrontation, revealing that he was on his way to attend a cross-border peace dialogue at the invitation of the Yumbe District leadership in Uganda. “It’s disappointing that this incident happened just as we were preparing for a peaceful engagement,” he said.
County Security Coordinator, Mr. Godfrey Data Rembe, also reiterated the government’s commitment to a diplomatic solution emphasizing that the county officials have not forgotten their responsibility to the people they serve.
Meanwhile, Mr. Mogga Charles, Secretary of the County Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, described the humanitarian situation as critical. “Initial assessments are complete, but the number of displaced persons may continue to rise. Urgent intervention is needed,” he warned
The county leadership called on the public to remain calm and trust the ongoing security and diplomatic efforts. They reaffirmed that restoring peace, ensuring safety, and responding to humanitarian needs remain top priorities.