The government must focus seriously on the border issues that are causing misunderstandings along the borderlines of our country. These conflicts need to be taken up seriously before they cause more harm to the South Sudanese community.

Consider the recent incidents along the South Sudan-Uganda border, which have caused significant displacement. This border issue appears to be a complex mix of political conflict, economic interests (especially among traders), and conflicts of interest involving politicians from both sides.

The Ugandan government needs to be completely transparent. If there is a hidden agenda that leads to the shooting of South Sudanese civilians and ladies, it must be addressed directly, as these matters cannot be solved amicably when lives are being lost. This is not the first time Ugandan forces have attacked South Sudan’s borders. These recurring annual attacks, which always result in cold-blooded casualties, suggest there is a deeper objective or interest they are pursuing in South Sudan. The continuous provocations could also be connected to unhealthy dynamics between politicians in both countries.

Border issues must be handled at the National level. While counties and states provide vital information, the National Government must take charge of security and diplomacy along the national borders with our neighbors. If these border disputes are allowed to continue unchecked, it will become increasingly difficult for the two nations to reach an agreement, potentially leading to further invasion or sustained conflict a dangerous scenario in the country.

These attacks are a recurring pattern. Given the clear demarcations of the border, why does the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) repeatedly attack? Why is there an apparent drive to collect resources that belong to South Sudan? There seems to be a lack of seriousness from the government of South Sudan regarding its own borders and resources, which only encourages these perpetual challenges. Had South Sudanese soldiers been the ones killed, the resulting media backlash against South Sudan would undoubtedly have been severe.

I urge the Ugandan Government to learn how to resolve issues amicably rather than resorting to opening fire across a border that does not belong to them. This act is unacceptable. While Uganda and South Sudan currently enjoy a good relationship—built on strong business, political, and economic ties—there is no need to spoil it through aggression. We must maintain peace in every aspect, as a breakdown will be difficult for all of us to repair. Furthermore, the Ugandan government should not believe it can develop its economy by exploiting South Sudanese minerals, even if some of our leaders are complicit. Our resources belong to the citizens, not the government alone.

I appeal to the Government of South Sudan to take serious note of all its border issues, especially with Uganda and Kenya, before more bloodshed occurs.

God protect South Sudan.

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