Border Tensions: South Sudan-Uganda Clashes Turn Deadly

At least six individuals have lost their lives amid rising tensions between South Sudan and Uganda over their contested border. The dispute, which arose near their shared boundary, often sees intermittent skirmishes over competing territorial claims.

On Monday, soldiers from both countries exchanged gunfire in South Sudan's Kajo Keji county, resulting in the deaths of five South Sudanese troops. According to Ugandan army spokesperson Felix Kulayigye, the South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF) personnel had crossed into Uganda's West Nile region and refused orders to retreat, sparking the deadly encounter that claimed one Ugandan soldier's life.

Historically, Uganda has been an ally of South Sudan, supporting forces loyal to President Salva Kiir. A joint border committee has been tasked with formulating a peaceful resolution to these recurrent disputes. This follows South Sudan's March request for Uganda's military support to maintain security in its capital, Juba.

(With inputs from agencies.)