20 Ugandan Police Officers Deployed to South Sudan Peacekeeping Mission

Updated by Faith Barabara N Ruhinda at 1310 EAT on Friday 3 October 2025

The Uganda Police Force is deploying 20 officers to South Sudan for a UN peacekeeping mission, reinforcing the nation’s role in supporting international stability.

The 20 officers began a five-day pre-deployment training on Wednesday at the Kikandwa Police ICT Centre in Wakiso District. They will join UN peacekeepers in South Sudan.

UPF Peace Support Operations head Polly Namaye urged the officers to maintain professionalism and discipline, noting their conduct reflects on Uganda.

“I urge you to exhibit professionalism and discipline in the execution of your duties during the mission. Embrace unity and teamwork to ensure the success of your operations,” said Namaye.

South Sudan remains on the brink of renewed conflict following a political fallout between President Salva Kiir and his First Vice President, Riek Machar, seven months ago. Machar, accused of plotting to overthrow Kiir’s government, has been under house arrest since February.

In response to escalating tensions, Uganda deployed additional troops to South Sudan in March at President Kiir’s request, amid fears that Machar’s loyalists were mobilizing to topple the government.

Tensions escalated further last week after President Salva Kiir’s government put First Vice President Riek Machar on trial for treason and murder, raising fears that South Sudan could relapse into full-scale civil war, The Observer has reported.

Ugandan troops under the command of Colonel Bernard Kashemeza, the battle group commander, remain on high alert and are undergoing refresher training as the political standoff intensifies in the world’s youngest nation.

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