JUBA – Uganda’s army chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba jetted to Juba on Saturday and held high-level discussions with President Salva Kiir, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and regional stability.
Muhoozi’s trip comes as the UPDF and South Sudan army (SSPDF) are engaged in occasional deadly clashes along the border amid encroachment accusations by both sides.
The son of President Museveni arrived in Juba earlier in the morning and was received by his South Sudanese counterpart at the Juba International Airport, according to the UPDF.
Following brief talks, Muhoozi proceeded to State House for the presidential meeting.
After meeting President Kiir, the CDF visited the tactical headquarters of UPDF troops camped on the outskirts of Juba to help defend against likely rebel attacks.
He was later joined by Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel, with whom he held further discussions on security cooperation.
Uganda has a history of involvement in South Sudan conflicts since the country descended into war in 2014 and has recently deployed troops at the request of the South Sudanese government following clashes between SPLA-IO forces and government troops.
Five South Sudan security officers were killed by heavily armed Ugandan soldiers who attacked their post at Bori Boma, Kangapo Payam in Kajo-Keji County on July 28 authorities said.