South Sudan Contributes Troops to Regional Force, Aims for Peaceful Neighborhood

The South Sudanese government, through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, is actively assisting its citizens who are returning from Sudan and providing shelter for refugees seeking safety from the ongoing insurgency in their country.

According to Ambassador Simon Juach Deng, the South Sudanese Ambassador to Uganda, camps have been established to accommodate refugees while returnees are directed to their respective villages.

“As a country, we have no option but to support these people who are fleeing violence. We are doing everything within our means to provide security and meet their basic needs through various agencies,” Ambassador Deng affirmed. “South Sudan is a member of the United Nations and contributes to the multilateral system. Additionally, as a country, we are committed to supporting these individuals.”

Ambassador Deng made these remarks during a Media Symposium organized by the Pan African Federation Movement, which aimed to promote the African Agenda on peace and security. He emphasized that South Sudan is actively engaged in reaching out to the warring parties in Sudan through the framework of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). In April, IGAD agreed to appoint South Sudan President Salva Kir Mayardit as the lead negotiator.

Regarding regional efforts, Ambassador Deng shared that South Sudan has already dispatched 300 troops to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and expects to deploy an additional battalion pending approval. This contribution is part of the East African Regional Force, in which countries are participating to ensure regional stability.

“Our involvement in the DRC is aimed at assisting our neighbour and promoting a peaceful neighbourhood,” stated Ambassador Deng. The South Sudan-DRC border stretches approximately 800 kilometres, and communities on both sides have familial ties. Ensuring peace in the DRC is crucial to prevent population displacement and alleviate the burden on South Sudan.

During the media symposium, Ambassador Deng expressed disappointment in some journalists’ lack of knowledge regarding the distinction between Sudan and South Sudan. He even offered to organize a familiarization tour to Juba, the capital of South Sudan, to enhance their understanding.

As South Sudan continues to address the needs of returning citizens and refugees, the government remains committed to fostering regional stability and supporting those affected by the ongoing crisis.