On July 29, 2025, soldiers from Uganda crossed the border into South Sudan and unexpectedly attacked South Sudanese troops in the border area of Kajo Keji.
This surprise attack shocked many because Uganda and South Sudan have been close allies, with Uganda providing military support to South Sudan’s government for years.
The firefight left at least eight people dead five South Sudanese soldiers and three Ugandan soldiers, according to officials and local witnesses. Some of the dead were in army uniforms, while one was wearing blue jeans, showing that both official soldiers and possibly local fighters were involved.
The sudden violence caused panic in the border communities. More than 100 people fled their homes to escape the fighting. Bishop Joseph Aba Nicanor from the Episcopal Diocese of Liwolo, who helped recover the bodies, said many children were left without parents and many elderly people were scattered and helpless.
The injured had no access to medicine, making the situation even worse.
This clash is unusual because Uganda and South Sudan have been security partners for a long time, especially as South Sudan struggles to stay stable. South Sudan is an oil-rich country but has been close to civil war. Recently, tensions rose when South Sudan’s vice president was placed under house arrest in March 2025, and Uganda sent troops to support South Sudan’s president.
The conflict also comes amid other problems for South Sudan. In April, the United States stopped giving visas to South Sudanese citizens, cutting aid to a country already suffering from hunger, displacement, and disease.
Experts warn that Uganda’s presence in South Sudan may be causing tensions. Daniel Akech Thiong, a South Sudan expert, said many South Sudanese people worry about Uganda moving into border areas and taking natural resources. He believes that such clashes increase the risk of more conflict between the two countries.
South Sudan’s army confirmed the fighting and said both sides suffered casualties. They have agreed with Uganda to form a joint team to investigate what happened. Uganda’s officials have not yet commented on the attack.
This incident highlights how fragile peace is in East Africa and shows how even close allies can quickly become enemies.
