South Sudan, Uganda agree to reactivate joint border security committees

South Sudan and Uganda have agreed to strengthen border security, expand cross-border trade and improve cooperation on migration, health and refugee matters following the 6th Uganda-South Sudan Joint Border Meeting on Economic and Security Cooperation held in Arua District.

In a joint communiqué issued on Friday after the meeting, the two delegations said the discussions focused on four key areas, including trade and economic cooperation, customs and revenue, security and stability, as well as migration and social services.

The two sides also warned against misinformation and statements that could increase tensions between communities along the border.

The communiqué stated; “The two delegations cautioned against misinformation, poor communication, and inflammatory narratives that fuel mistrust, reaffirming that dialogue, joint border patrols, and active engagement with traditional leaders are the primary mechanisms for peaceful conflict resolution.”

On economic cooperation, South Sudan and Uganda agreed to address barriers affecting trade and movement of goods between the two countries.

The communiqué stated; “The meeting resolved to eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers, address private sector challenges, and streamline customs and immigration protocols to optimize cargo clearance and eliminate delays along the Central Equatoria and West Nile transport corridors.”

The communiqué stated; “Both sides agreed to immediately reactivate Cross Border Security Management Committees meetings to ensure long-term stability, peaceful coexistence, and expanded cross-border trade.”

The meeting was co-chaired by Uganda’s Ambassador to South Sudan, Brigadier General Ronnie Balya, and Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony Wani.

South Sudan will host the next Joint Border Meeting, with the date to be determined through diplomatic channels.