Ugandan leader offers to mediate peace in Sudan

By Awan Achiek

Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Monday expressed his willingness to mediate the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

In his key address following a meeting with the United Nations Envoy for Sudan at State House Entebbe, Museveni said he was ready to mediate Sudan conflict if both warring parties allow him to get involved.

“I am ready to mediate the conflict if they are agreeable,” said a statement posted on the National Resistance Movement Facebook Page on Monday.

Museveni reiterated his commitment to joining efforts to restore peace in Sudan.

He emphasized that the root cause of the conflict lies in the promotion of identity politics, which destabilizes a country as diverse as Sudan.

He urged the warring factions to agree to a ceasefire and to hand over power to the people of Sudan.

For his part, Ramtane Lamamra, the United Nations Special Envoy to Sudan, assured President Museveni of the UN’s full support in resolving the conflict.

“Mr. President, if there is anything the UN can do to assist in restoring peace to Sudan, please involve us. We are ready and willing to work with you,” Lamamra said.

The UN envoy said while efforts have been made to secure a localized ceasefire, fighting continues, and civilians remain at risk.

“Despite the ongoing conflict and the flow of weapons to both sides, there is still an opportunity to move forward and secure a ceasefire to address the urgent humanitarian needs,” he added.

Since April 15, 2023, Sudan has been plagued by a violent conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

The conflict has resulted in at least 16,650 deaths and the displacement of millions of people.