Update on the Crisis in South Sudan
UN Helicopter Attacked During Critical Evacuation Effort, Casualties Reported
As per previous African Security Analysis report on South Sudan (Escalating Security Crisis in South Sudan – 7 March 2025), a United Nations helicopter engaged in a vital evacuation mission in Nasir, Upper Nile State, came under fire earlier today. The attack resulted in the tragic death of one crew member and serious injuries to two others. Additionally, several members of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), including a wounded general, lost their lives during the operation.
The evacuation, coordinated by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), was undertaken to ease tensions in the region after recent clashes between SSPDF forces and militia fighters from the White Army. These confrontations have led to extensive casualties and widespread displacement of civilians.
Urgent need for assistance
Amid escalating violence, the SSPDF commander loyal to President Salva Kiir issued an urgent plea for assistance in Nasir. General Majur, along with 11 officers, sought refuge inside a tank to avoid capture by the advancing White Army. Following negotiations, the White Army granted permission for the evacuation of General Majur and his officers by UN forces to Juba.
Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, strongly condemned the attack in a statement. “This assault on UNMISS personnel is deplorable and may constitute a war crime under international law. We deeply mourn the loss of our colleague and offer our heartfelt condolences to their loved ones,” he said.
Haysom further expressed regret over the deaths of those UNMISS sought to rescue, particularly given the assurances of safe passage that had been secured. He called for an independent investigation to identify and hold those responsible accountable.
UNMISS has issued a renewed call for all parties to immediately cease hostilities and highlighted the urgent need for dialogue to resolve the situation peacefully. The mission has also appealed to South Sudan’s leadership to act swiftly to prevent further deterioration of security conditions in Nasir and across the nation.
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A Fragile Ceasefire in Eastern DRC
Amid ongoing violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), two nearly identical statements released on April 23, 2025, announced an immediate ceasefire. One was signed in Goma by a member of the rebel group AFC/M23—someone not even officially part of the delegation—and the other was issued by the Congolese government in Kinshasa.
Ituri Under Surveillance
Rising Security Concerns The political fragmentation in eastern DRC continues to threaten the fragile stability of Ituri. The failure of the Doha process and the breakdown of the republican pact could pave the way for a new wave of unrest in the region. On April 22, 2025, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, met with leaders of the Lendu militia CODECO (Cooperative for the Development of the Congo) in Entebbe. Officially, the meeting was convened to address CODECO’s attack on Ugandan military positions in Ituri, a confrontation that adds to past clashes between the group and the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). Key Figures and Discussions The CODECO delegation, led by Dunji Kulukpa Etienne (Vice President of the Lendu community), included political and militant representatives. On the Ugandan side, top-ranking officials participated: • General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, CDF • Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga, Land Forces Commander • Major General Felix Busizoori, Commander of the 4th Infantry Division • Brigadier General Oscar Munanura, Deputy Assistant Chief of Intelligence and Security Earlier in the week, CODECO leaders had already engaged with Ugandan military commanders. During the Entebbe meeting, Mr. Dunji expressed gratitude for Uganda’s reception and apologized for the Fataki clashes between CODECO and the UPDF. He claimed the militia had been influenced by external forces and emphasized that the Lendu, Balega, and Bahema communities do not view Uganda as an adversary. Dunji also highlighted Ituri’s worsening humanitarian crisis, attributing it to political divisions, while praising Uganda’s contributions in healthcare, refugee assistance, and economic aid. Uganda’s Expanding Influence in Ituri General Kainerugaba reaffirmed Uganda’s historical presence in North Kivu and Ituri, citing counter-insurgency operations dating back to the early 2000s. He urged CODECO leaders to collaborate with the UPDF in pursuit of a lasting peace. As a demonstration of goodwill, Ugandan forces provided free medical care to wounded CODECO fighters. Strategic Implications: A Larger Agenda? While Uganda frames this meeting as a step toward reconciliation, analysts at African Security Analysis suggest a deeper motive. They argue that the gathering was part of a broader effort to integrate CODECO into the militant coalition led by Thomas Lubanga, potentially setting the stage for coordinated offensives in Ituri, particularly targeting Bunia. If confirmed, this would signal a significant shift in the security landscape, with Uganda deepening its influence in Ituri under the guise of conflict resolution. The region remains under scrutiny as stakeholders assess the evolving dynamics.
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