South Sudan-Uganda Border Dispute: The Necessity for Bilateral Dialogue and Peaceful Settlement
Deng Duot Bior-Barr is a South Sudanese PhD law student at the University of Dundee in Scotland, UK.
By Deng Duot Bior-Barr, Dundee, Scotland
Monday, 30 September 2024 (PW) — Discussions about the border between South Sudan and Uganda have persisted for a long time because of its importance in defining territorial integrity, advancing peace, and cultivating positive relations between the two neighbouring countries. Several South Sudanese towns around Kajo Keji are areas of contentious sovereignty, with a de facto ill-defined frontier following historic tribal boundaries. South Sudan claims more significant swaths of the South Sudanese town of Pajok. However, Uganda has opposed the lines of the claim.
This has led to rising tensions over disputed territories within their shared boundaries in recent years, underscoring the pressing need for diplomatic and peaceful resolutions. Nevertheless, the lack of government control, problems with refugees, and general lawlessness in border regions have made the demarcation and formalisation of the international boundary between South Sudan and Uganda almost impossible.
Historical Context
The border issue between South Sudan and Uganda is not an unknown phenomenon. Similar to many borders across Africa, they were drawn during colonial times with little interpretation from the ethnic communities and social or geographical realities of the areas. These arbitrary borders were imposed on African communities by colonial masters. These masters have left a remnant of the dispute between many African nations, and South Sudan and Uganda are not exceptional.
For many years, several communities living along the border have coexisted and have shared cultural, social, and economic ties. However, as both countries have recently grown and developed, the need for clearly defined borders has gradually become more pressing. The discovery of natural resources such as gold, diamonds, and marble around and in the Ilemi Triangle has driven the desire for political and economic stability, further fuelling the need for a conclusive border agreement.
Escalation of Tensions
Recent disputes over farmland and ownership, grazing land rights, and territorial claims have escalated, particularly in the Ngomoromo and Moyo Districts. These are, as have seen, skirmishes between local communities, as well as clashes between security forces from both nations, mainly the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) arresting South Sudan Defence Force (SSPDF) service members. These ten ions and consequences can potentially destabilise the border local communities and the broader relationship between South Sudan and Uganda.
A significant concern is the potential conflict over natural resources in the area. In addition, the fertile land in the disputed regions is crucial for agriculture in Mughali and Pajok and pastoralism, both of which are lifelines for local communities. Any further escalation would disrupt livelihoods, lead to displacement, and spark humanitarian crises.
The Importance of Dialogue
To prevent further conflict, it is fundamental that both South Sudan and Uganda prioritise dialogue over violence. In addition, diplomacy, supported by international mediation, offers the most viable path forward. Talks have taken place in the past, but there is a growing consensus that more structured and sustained dialogue is needed to resolve these issues permanently.
Another solution involves regional parties, such as the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union (AU), and experts. These bodies have a way of mediating similar disputes and can provide neutral grounds for negotiations. Furthermore, the involvement of the local communities in the dialogue process is crucial, as they directly affect border issues and often hold intimate knowledge of the land and its history.
Peaceful Settlement as a Priority
It should be argued that a peaceful settlement of the border issue would avoid further violence and consolidate the economic and political ties between South Sudan and Uganda. These nations will mutually benefit more, increasing trade, security cooperation, and regional stability. Resolving the border dispute pea fully would also set a positive example for other African nations that face similar challenges.
Involving local communities, experts, and international mediators, maintaining open lines of communication, and fostering trust between the two countries is crucial to achieving lasting solutions. South Sudan and Uganda leaders must commit to finding peaceful negotiated settlements for the sake of their citizens and the region as a whole.
Conclusion
Although deeply rooted in historical complexities, the South Sudan-Uganda border issue can be resolved through dialogue, cooperation, and diplomacy. A peaceful settlement will not only help a potential conflict but also pave the way for deeper regional integration and mutual prosperity. Both nations must prioritise peaceful negotiations and work toward a sustainable solution that benefits all parties involved. In doing so, they contribute to long-term ability and peace in the region.
The author, Deng D’Duot Bior-Barr, is a South Sudanese PhD Candidate at the Center for Energy, University of Dundee, Scotland. He can be reached via his email address: John Deng Duot Bior-bar <dduotdit@gmail.com>
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