KAMPALA, Uganda — A longstanding border dispute between Uganda, Kenya and South Sudan took a step closer to resolution this week, as officials from the three nations gathered in Kampala for a three-day meeting.
The fourth Tripartite Technical Boundary Committee meeting, which concluded Thursday, aimed to hammer out details for the establishment of a tri-junction boundary point. The meeting marked a significant milestone in efforts to resolve the dispute, which has long been a source of tension between the three nations.
“The tri-junction is a vital geographical and political point,” said Bagiire Vincent Waiswa, Uganda’s permanent secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in remarks at the meeting’s opening. “Once established, it will help mitigate conflicts that have arisen from disputes over unclear boundaries.”
Waiswa’s comments reflected the broader significance of the dispute, which has implications for regional stability, trade and economic development. The three nations share deep cultural and historical ties, but their relations have often been complicated by disagreements over borders.
“The three nations are bound together not only by geography but by shared heritage, language, customs and norms, including mutual interests in trade, security and development,” Waiswa said.
Jacqueline W. Banana, who led the Ugandan delegation, welcomed the progress made during the meeting. Juster Nkoroi, who led the Kenyan delegation, noted that the three countries have successfully implemented all activities related to the establishment of the tri-junction.
“The Republic of Kenya is committed and ready to implement the memoranda of understanding on reaffirmation, delimitation and demarcation of her respective boundaries with Uganda and South Sudan,” Nkoroi said.
David Nailo Mayo, who led the South Sudanese delegation, praised the African Union Border Programme for its support in facilitating border activities.
The meeting’s outcome was seen as a positive step forward, although officials acknowledged that significant work remains to be done. The three nations have committed to continuing their efforts to resolve the dispute, with the goal of establishing a clear and mutually recognized boundary.
