By Yiep Joseph
The African Diplomatic Corps (ADC) has renewed its commitment to dialogue, peace, and democratic transition in South Sudan.
The body called on political leaders and citizens to embrace dialogue and work together toward peaceful and inclusive dialogue ahead of elections scheduled for December 2026.
The call was made in commemoration of Africa Day, an important occasion that celebrates African unity, solidarity, freedom, and cooperation among nations across the continent.
The event brought together African ambassadors and diplomats in a show of support for peace and stability in South Sudan.
The ADC, a body comprising African ambassadors accredited to South Sudan, used the occasion to reaffirm the African Union’s unwavering support for the implementation of peace efforts and democratic progress in the country.
Addressing the media on Sunday, Abdiwaki Mohammed Ali, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission to South Sudan, emphasised the importance of dialogue, inclusion, and national unity as South Sudan prepares for elections
He said the African Union and African countries remain committed to ensuring lasting peace and stability in South Sudan as the country moves toward a democratic transition.
“As South Sudan moves from a post-conflict setting towards a stable, peaceful democracy, we call on all citizens to remember that what unites us as Africans is more than what divides us. We, therefore, urge all to oppose divisive tendencies and promote inclusion, mutual trust, and sustainable economic growth,” Mohammed said.
“The ADC looks forward to peaceful, inclusive, and successful elections in December 2026, as the country transitions towards nationhood, liberty, freedom, and justice,” he added.
Mohammed further highlighted the African Union’s continued dedication to the principles of freedom, justice, equality, and unity, stressing that these values remain central to the continent’s aspirations for peace and development.
“As we enter a new era, we reaffirm our commitment to the enduring principles of freedom, unity, justice, and equality,” he said.
“Inspired by these continental ideals, the ADC stands in solidarity, united by a common purpose of peace, unity, and love, to encourage all South Sudanese to live together as one, pursue a shared destiny, benefit equitably from the resources, wealth, and prosperity of this nation, and work towards a peaceful, stable, and developed country,” he added.
The remarks underscored the growing role being played by African diplomats and regional partners in supporting South Sudan’s peace process through engagement, diplomacy, and encouragement for inclusive political dialogue.
Also speaking during the event, Maholdi Samuel Muofhe, the Ambassador of South Africa to South Sudan, reaffirmed the African Union’s continued support for peacebuilding efforts and stressed the need for political leaders to prioritise dialogue.
“South Sudan must embark on dialogue; as C5, we are behind and in support,” Maholdi said.
He noted that African Union envoys and regional stakeholders continue to engage different parties in South Sudan to encourage consensus-building and inclusive participation in the country’s political process.
The ambassador’s remarks reflected the broader continental commitment to ensuring that South Sudan achieves lasting peace through African-led solutions, cooperation, and constructive engagement among stakeholders.
Meanwhile, Hazem Mamdouh Fawzy, ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to South Sudan, reiterated the African Union’s commitment to promoting peaceful dialogue and stability in South Sudan.
He emphasised that the country possesses enormous natural resources and economic potential capable of transforming the lives of citizens if peace and stability are sustained.
According to diplomats attending the event, peace remains a critical foundation for development, investment, service delivery, and national reconciliation in South Sudan.
The Africa Day celebration also served as an opportunity to reflect on the continent’s shared history and collective aspirations for unity, prosperity, and self-determination.
Africa Day is celebrated annually on May 25 to honour African unity, freedom, and cooperation among nations across the continent.
The day commemorates the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963 in Addis Ababa, which later evolved into the African Union.
The official Africa Day 2026 theme is “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.”
However, some Africa Day events (including national or local celebrations) may use slightly different slogans focused on unity or integration, such as “Unity, Integration and Development,” depending on the host country or institution
Across Africa, the day is marked through discussions, cultural activities, and reflections on the continent’s progress, challenges, and future aspirations. It also recognises the sacrifices of African leaders and freedom fighters who championed independence, dignity, and unity across the continent.
For South Sudan, this year’s commemoration carried added significance as the country prepares for a critical political transition.
Diplomats and regional representatives used the occasion to encourage unity, peaceful coexistence, and cooperation among citizens and leaders alike.
The ADC’s message highlighted the importance of inclusive governance, mutual trust, and peaceful dialogue as key pillars for ensuring credible elections and long-term national stability.
As South Sudan continues its journey toward lasting peace and democratic governance, the support and engagement of African diplomatic missions and regional institutions remain vital in encouraging reconciliation, stability, and development across the country.