By Sabri Dibaco
Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony has held discussions with the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of the Ugandan Koboko District.
The discussion focused on strengthening cross-border cooperation and addressing security and smuggling challenges along the South Sudan-Uganda border.
The meeting took place during Governor Adil’s visit to the Kaya border area, where he was accompanied by members of the State Security Committee.
According to a press statement from the office of the governor, the discussions focused on implementing the resolutions reached during the South Sudan-Uganda bilateral meeting and improving security information-sharing mechanisms between the two neighbouring countries.
The two sides expressed concern over cross-border smuggling, particularly the illegal movement of fuel between South Sudan and Uganda.
The meeting also discussed the alleged forgery of clearance documents used to facilitate the movement of charcoal from South Sudan into Uganda.
“Both sides emphasised the importance of joint border patrols, timely information sharing, and stronger coordination between security agencies of the two countries,” the statement read in part.
Authorities said the illegal charcoal trade is contributing to environmental degradation, raising the need for stronger cooperation between border authorities and security agencies.
The meeting further proposed a joint trilateral engagement involving South Sudan, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The proposed meeting would focus on cross-border security, trade, smuggling, and other challenges affecting communities living along the borders of the three countries.
The governor’s engagement with Ugandan authorities comes amid continued efforts by South Sudan and Uganda to strengthen border management and cooperation, particularly in areas affected by illegal trade and cross-border security concerns.
The two sides reaffirmed the importance of coordinated action, information sharing, and joint mechanisms to address challenges affecting border communities and promote peaceful cross-border relations.