The Uganda People’s Defence Forces has defended its military presence in South Sudan, saying the operation is lawful and has played a key role in stabilizing the country.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs said the current deployment of Ugandan troops in South Sudan was carried out at the invitation of the South Sudanese government and approved by Uganda’s Parliament.

The statement, signed by Colonel Chris Magezi, was issued in response to a report by the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan published on February 27.

According to the UPDF, its operations in South Sudan have helped prevent further violence, particularly in the capital Juba, and stopped attacks by armed groups including the White Army.

The defence forces said their record over 45 years shows they have not targeted civilians and have instead contributed to peace support operations across the region.

Ugandan troops have previously been involved in security missions in Somalia, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and South Sudan.

The UPDF also criticized sections of international media reporting on the UN findings, saying the coverage does not fully reflect Uganda’s position, which has been communicated to the United Nations.