Writer: Lodu William Odiya
President Salva Kiir Mayardit, the President of the Republic of South Sudan, today departed Nairobi, Kenya, for South Africa following his meeting with President William Ruto.
According to the presidential press unit, he was seen off by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku.
“The visit is aimed at holding follow-up discussions with President Cyril Ramaphosa, Chair of the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee for South Sudan (C5), following the adoption of the Committee’s declaration,” the statement partly read.
The declaration reaffirmed the C5’s commitment to accompanying the government and people of South Sudan towards lasting peace, prosperity, and development.
It recognises progress in implementing the peace agreement and takes note of preparations for the December 2026 general elections.
“It also recognises the commencement of the Inter-Party Dialogue on Election-Related Matters as an important step towards resolving outstanding electoral issues, while encouraging broader participation, including women and youth, to build national consensus,” the statement continued.
According to the press unit, the follow-up engagement would focus on translating these discussions into practical cooperation, including South Africa’s support for electoral preparations and election-related materials.
“This builds on the declaration’s call for coordinated technical, financial, and logistical assistance aligned with verified needs and a nationally agreed electoral roadmap,” the statement added.
The visit marks an important opportunity to advance shared efforts towards peaceful, credible, inclusive, and transparent elections in this country.
The country is preparing for general elections scheduled for December 2026, amid continued efforts by political parties and other stakeholders to address outstanding issues surrounding the electoral process.
The Inter-Party Dialogue has been presented as an avenue for political actors to engage on election-related concerns and promote a peaceful environment ahead of the polls.
The President’s visit to South Africa therefore comes at a critical stage as the country works to implement the peace agreement while preparing for the elections.
The discussions with President Ramaphosa are expected to strengthen cooperation between South Sudan and South Africa and reinforce regional and continental efforts to support the peace process.
The visit also provides an opportunity for the two leaders to discuss practical measures that could contribute to peaceful, credible, inclusive, and transparent elections.
South Sudanese authorities and international partners have continued to emphasise the importance of political dialogue, adequate preparations, and broad participation as the country approaches the December polls.
Kiir’s South Africa visit is consequently expected to contribute to efforts aimed at ensuring that peace implementation and electoral preparations move forward together.