President Kiir Meets President Museveni, Stresses Regional Peace and Bilateral Cooperation

By Adonis Byemelwa

Juba– South Sudan's President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Uganda's President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, on April 3, 2025, held a crucial meeting in Juba, reaffirming their commitment to regional stability and strengthening bilateral relations.

The talks underscored the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, with both leaders acknowledging the importance of unity in tackling security and economic challenges.

Speaking after the meeting, South Sudan’s Foreign Minister Ramadan Mohammed Abdallah Goc described the discussions as constructive and timely.

"This engagement was about more than diplomacy—it was about ensuring a stable and prosperous future for both our nations. President Kiir and President Museveni are determined to see their people thrive in a peaceful and secure environment."

Uganda has played a significant role in South Sudan’s peace process, and Museveni’s visit further reinforced his country’s commitment to maintaining stability in the region. The Ugandan Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation, John Mulimba, emphasized that the meeting was a step toward reinforcing security and economic cooperation.

"We understand that our destinies are intertwined. When South Sudan prospers, Uganda prospers. Our leaders are keen on making sure that no external or internal threat destabilizes the region."

The discussions also touched on economic collaboration, with a particular focus on trade and infrastructure. Uganda remains one of South Sudan’s largest trading partners, supplying essential goods and services, and both leaders acknowledged the need to remove trade barriers to facilitate smoother business operations.

Officials familiar with the discussions noted that improving cross-border trade and transport routes was a key part of the agenda, ensuring a more seamless exchange of goods and services.

Security, however, remained at the heart of the meeting. South Sudan continues to navigate complex post-conflict realities, and President Kiir reiterated his government's commitment to implementing the revitalized peace agreement.

"Peace is not just a political aspiration; it is a necessity for our people. We must ensure that the progress we have made is not derailed by challenges that can be addressed through dialogue and cooperation," Kiir stated.

Museveni, known for his candid approach to regional politics, reportedly emphasized the need for stronger governance structures and decisive leadership to prevent conflicts from resurfacing. "We have seen the cost of instability in Africa, and we know that without strong institutions, peace cannot hold. South Sudan has an opportunity to cement its stability, and Uganda stands ready to support its efforts."

As the meeting concluded, there was a shared sense of urgency in turning words into action. Officials from both governments indicated that collaborative initiatives would soon follow, reinforcing economic ties and addressing security concerns.

The message from Juba was clear—South Sudan and Uganda are not just neighbors but strategic partners committed to shaping a peaceful and prosperous future for their people.