The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has deployed troops to South Sudan as part of a new military operation aimed at bolstering security and stability in the region.
Dubbed ‘Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya,’ the mission officially commenced on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, with the insertion of special operations forces through Juba International Airport.
The Commander of Land Forces (CLF), Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga, recently briefed the South Sudan-bound troops at the 4 Infantry Division Headquarters in Gulu.
During the briefing, he urged the soldiers to remain vigilant and resilient in fulfilling their mission objectives.
As part of the operation, UPDF has reinforced its deployment through multiple entry points, including Bibia and Nimule at the Uganda-South Sudan international border.
The mission is being led by Brigadier General Anthony Mbuusi Lukwago, a seasoned field commander with extensive combat experience.
Prior to this assignment, Brig. Gen. Lukwago commanded Ugandan troops under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), headquartered in Mogadishu.
The deployment underscores Uganda’s commitment to regional peace and security, particularly in conflict-prone areas of South Sudan.
While the full scope of Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya remains undisclosed, military sources indicate that the mission aims to support stabilization efforts, enhance security cooperation, and protect Uganda’s national interests in the region.
This latest UPDF deployment comes amid ongoing security concerns in South Sudan, where armed conflicts and instability have continued to pose threats to regional peace.
Uganda has been an active player in peacekeeping efforts, contributing troops to various missions in the past.
As the operation progresses, UPDF leadership is expected to provide updates on its developments and achievements in the field.
