The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) is set to increase the number of troops stationed along the Juba-Nimule highway following a recent attack along the route last week.
This strategic move comes in response to a violent assault by unidentified militants, intensifying concerns over the safety of travelers on this critical corridor that links South Sudan with Uganda.
The expanded deployment aims to enhance security and restore confidence among road users, including traders and humanitarian workers, who rely heavily on the Juba-Nimule highway for essential goods, services, and aid.
The highway is a lifeline for South Sudan’s economy, facilitating the importation of goods from Uganda, the country’s largest trading partner. Any disruption on this route could have a significant impact on South Sudan’s already fragile economy.
General Lul Ruai Koang, spokesperson for the SSPDF, confirmed the decision, emphasizing the immediate need to secure the route.
“The SSPDF will deploy additional forces along the Juba-Nimule Road to ensure the safety of public road users,” General Lul stated, highlighting the urgency of countering militant threats in the border areas.
The decision for the deployment was reached during a high-level meeting last week between the Chiefs of Staff of both Uganda and South Sudan. The discussions also addressed other cross-border issues, such as land encroachment and the detention of South Sudanese soldiers by Ugandan forces.
General Lul announced that an agreement had been reached to stop further encroachment on South Sudanese land near the border. Additionally, the Ugandan military has agreed to release three South Sudanese soldiers who were detained in July 2024, marking a positive step in diplomatic and military relations between the two nations.
“The three servicemen have been released following fruitful discussions between our military leaders,” General Lul confirmed.
The deployment along the Juba-Nimule Road is expected to be closely monitored as South Sudan navigates the complex security challenges at the border while striving to maintain peaceful bilateral relations.
