(Reuters) – Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni arrived in South Sudan on Thursday, April 3, 2025, marking the highest-level visit since recent clashes and the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar raised concerns of a renewed civil war in the region.
High-Level Diplomatic Mission
Museveni was received at the airport by South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, whose administration has accused Machar of inciting rebellion and placed him under house arrest. Uganda’s military, which was invited into South Sudan last month to help secure the capital, has played a key role in the ongoing security efforts.
Although Museveni did not publicly address the political crisis upon his arrival in Juba, his visit follows mediation efforts by the African Union and an East African regional body earlier this week. These diplomatic initiatives aim to ease tensions and prevent further escalation.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Speaking to reporters, Museveni stated that his discussions with Kiir would focus on “strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation between our two nations.” Kiir, in turn, confirmed that their talks would cover “current political developments in the country.”
The standoff between Kiir and Machar, who previously led opposing forces during South Sudan’s devastating 2013–2018 civil war, has heightened fears of a return to widespread conflict. The United Nations has warned that escalating tensions could plunge the country into an all-out ethnic war.
Uganda’s Military Involvement
During the civil war, Uganda backed Kiir’s forces and recently deployed troops to South Sudan following renewed clashes between government forces and an ethnic Nuer militia in Upper Nile state. Machar’s predominantly Nuer forces were previously aligned with the White Army militia, but his party has denied allegations of ongoing links.
Uganda’s military chief, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba—who is also Museveni’s son—announced on Tuesday that Ugandan forces had been instructed to cease attacks on the White Army, provided they refrain from launching further offensives against Ugandan troops. However, Machar’s party has criticized Uganda’s involvement, arguing that it violates South Sudan’s arms embargo.
Political Maneuvering in Juba
Analysts suggest that Kiir, 73, is seeking to consolidate his position amid growing tensions within his political faction and speculation about his succession plans. As South Sudan navigates this fragile political landscape, Museveni’s visit signals ongoing regional efforts to stabilize the country and prevent a resurgence of full-scale conflict.
