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South Sudan mediation talks to begin soon in Kenya

Kenyan Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Sing'oei Korir shakes hands with Lieutenant General (Rtd) Lazarus Sumbeiywo after a meeting with the South Sudan Mediation Team in Nairobi on April 22, 2024. (Photo: X/Korir Sing'Oei)

By Bashir Mohammed | 28 Apr 2024

The development follows South Sudanese President Salva Kiir's request last December for Kenyan leader William Ruto to mediate.

Kenya will facilitate mediation between the South Sudan government and hold-out groups in the coming days, according to General Lazaro Sumbeiywo, the retired Kenyan army officer appointed by President William Ruto to oversee the talks.

The development follows South Sudanese President Salva Kiir's request last December for Kenyan leader William Ruto to mediate between the government and non-signatories to the September 2018 peace agreement.

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While the exact date for negotiations with other actors has not been revealed, the peace effort scheduled to take place in Nairobi represents a revitalised commitment to non-violent means of resolving the conflict.

Following a fruitful discussion with Kiir, Sumbeiywo expressed optimism about the peace process.

"This is a good message for the people of South Sudan, the region, and indeed, the whole world. This country has suffered much and should invest and develop its institutions to enhance state and nation-building."

President Kiir has demonstrated his commitment to a peaceful resolution of political differences, advocating for a calm and mediated resolution.

The Kenyan diplomat commended the South Sudan government and President Kiir for their wisdom and love for the country, proposing a peace initiative focused on achieving everlasting peace with the holdout groups.

South Sudan's Special Envoy to the President, Albino Mathom, confirmed the president's commitment to welcoming his "brothers back" and engaging in constructive dialogue to reach a comprehensive peace agreement that promotes reconciliation among all stakeholders.

In March 2023, the Rome-based Sant'Egidio Community adjourned peace talks between South Sudan's transitional government and non-signatory South Sudanese opposition groups due to disagreements on the agenda.

Kenya's involvement in the mediation effort is considered a positive development in the region's efforts to resolve conflicts through diplomacy and dialogue, marking a significant step towards lasting peace in South Sudan.