Uganda and South Sudan have maintained a strong and cooperative relationship for years, built on diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange.
However, recent tensions have emerged following concerns from Juba over what it perceives as damaging media reports—particularly from Uganda’s Daily Monitor newspaper.
Newly appointed South Sudanese Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Paul Molong Akaro, voiced his displeasure regarding what he described as “negative energies” emanating from sections of Uganda’s media.
Speaking from the South Sudan Embassy in Kampala, he specifically criticized the Daily Monitor for allegedly distorting South Sudan’s image.
A History of Strong Ties
Uganda has historically played a crucial role in South Sudan’s development, providing refuge for South Sudanese during their independence struggle and offering humanitarian aid. Since South Sudan gained independence in 2011, Uganda has remained a key ally, bolstering diplomatic ties and contributing to regional stability.
In a demonstration of this commitment, Uganda recently deployed the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to assist in maintaining security in South Sudan.
Economic collaboration is also a pillar of this partnership, with Uganda exporting food, manufactured goods, and construction materials to South Sudan. Ambassador Paul underscored the importance of this trade link, emphasizing its role in job creation and economic growth for both nations. Additionally, Uganda has been actively involved in peacekeeping efforts, working to curb cross-border crimes such as smuggling and human trafficking.
Media Controversy Sparks Outrage
Despite these enduring ties, diplomatic tensions flared following the publication of a political cartoon in the Sunday Monitor on March 9, 2025. The cartoon depicted South Sudanese President Salva Kiir in an unflattering manner, appearing preoccupied with alcohol while important documents lay scattered on his desk. A television screen in the background carried the ominous headline: “South Sudan on Brink of War.”
The illustration has provoked strong reactions in Juba, with South Sudanese officials condemning it as an attack on their leadership and an attempt to destabilize ongoing peace efforts.
South Sudan’s Official Response
Ambassador Paul revealed that his government has formally protested the matter through Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “We respect press freedom, but meddling in our internal affairs, especially during a sensitive period, is unacceptable,” he stated. Efforts to engage with the Monitor’s editorial team have reportedly been futile.
According to Mary Akuar, the embassy’s media handler, multiple attempts to reach out to the newspaper’s Editor-in-Chief for dialogue were ignored. “They refused to take our calls after we requested a meeting,” she disclosed.
A source within Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed receipt of South Sudan’s protest note, describing it as “strongly worded” and indicating that the issue is under discussion at the highest levels of government.
Responsible Journalism
Ambassador Paul Molong Akaro urged Ugandan media to contribute positively to fostering regional cooperation. “Our two nations should serve as an example of good neighborly relations in East Africa. The media must be a partner in this, not a source of division,” he said.
He further accused the Daily Monitor of displaying a lack of “emotional intelligence” and failing to consider the broader consequences of its reporting on regional diplomacy.
As South Sudan continues its fragile post-conflict recovery, its leaders emphasize the need for fairness and responsibility in media coverage. The situation remains delicate, with diplomatic efforts underway to address the concerns raised. Uganda’s response to this matter will likely shape the future trajectory of its relations with South Sudan.
