Museveni back in Uganda after South Sudan visit

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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni returned to Uganda Friday (April 4) after completing an official visit to neighbouring South Sudan.

While there, he held discussions with President Salva Kiir on regional peace and bilateral cooperation.

The one-day visit focused on strengthening ties between the two nations, marking another step in Uganda's diplomatic efforts to foster stability in the region.

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, Museveni was received by government officials, including the Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet, Lucy Nakyobe.

Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi and Deputy Inspector General of Police James Ochaya were also present on the tarmac.

In Juba, Museveni had kicked off his working visit with a tête-à-tête meeting with his host and counterpart Kiir, having arrived in South Sudan's capital on Thursday.

The two leaders also engaged in bilateral talks, addressing matters of peace and security, as well as socio-economic issues and the political landscape.

During the meeting held in Juba, Museveni and Kiir discussed the current security situation in South Sudan.

The Ugandan leader was also briefed on the status of the implementation of the peace agreement.

The government of South Sudan assured Museveni and his delegation of its commitment to implementing the 2018 revitalized peace agreement.

On economic matters, they agreed to harmonize trade policies, particularly regarding non-tariff barriers and the taxation of small commodities traded across the border between the two nations.

'Cordial meeting'

John Mulimba, Uganda's foreign affairs state minister for regional affairs, said that they held discussions on issues of commerce and trade, including social and economic matters.

“We had a cordial meeting touching on issues between our two governments that are of mutual benefit," he said.

"We also touched on the topic of peace and security in the region."

The meeting was attended by Uganda's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, and defence minister Jacob Oboth Oboth.

Also in attendance were South Sudanese government ministers.