By Kei Emmanuel Duku
Community leaders from Kajo-Keji County briefed Central Equatoria State Governor Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel on the tense border situation with Uganda’s Yumbe District on Wednesday.
The leaders discussed recent displacements and the ongoing humanitarian needs of affected residents.
The two community leaders who visited Governor include Agrrey Tisa Sabuni and Madam Poni Tekla Gabirel the chairperson of Kajo-Keji County Organizations and Kajo-Keji County Youth Association Coordinator respectively.
During the meeting, the Central Equatorial State, Governor Mujung commended their efforts and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring stability and protecting the affected communities.
He noted that the state government is working with national authorities, state ministries, and development partners to resolve the border dispute and address security concerns while minimizing the humanitarian impact.
Sabuni, who recently visited Kajo-Keji, reported that the use of heavy artillery by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) last month has caused mass displacement of residents.
He said many people are still unable to return home due to the insecurity. He called for stronger bilateral engagement between South Sudan and Uganda, stressing the need to reactivate the national border demarcation committee as a key step toward a lasting solution.
For her part, Gabriel thanked the state government for facilitating aid to the thousands of displaced people.
However, she raised concerns about deteriorating health conditions and disruptions to education. She warned that many students, especially those in their final year, are at risk of missing their exams and urged for immediate measures to ensure they can take them later this year. She concluded by stating the situation still requires a concerted effort from all parties.
The border region between Kajo-Keji County in South Sudan and Yumbe District in Uganda has been a source of tension for years.
Disputes over land ownership and boundaries have occasionally led to clashes, affecting the livelihoods and safety of communities on both sides. The conflict has resulted in the displacement of residents and a disruption of essential services, including education and healthcare.
Efforts to demarcate the border and find a peaceful resolution have been ongoing but have not yet led to a permanent solution. The recent escalation, marked by the use of heavy artillery, has renewed calls for a more coordinated and urgent response from both national governments to prevent further humanitarian crisis.