Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to mediating for peace and stability in South Sudan.
President William Ruto emphasized this dedication on Thursday during a meeting with the African Union Panel of the Wise (PoW) at State House, Nairobi. The PoW is a consultative body of the African Union, comprising five appointed members tasked with advising the Peace and Security Council on conflict prevention, management, and resolution.
“Kenya remains steadfast in supporting South Sudan’s journey towards peace and security. We are encouraged by the progress made towards stabilizing the country in preparation for upcoming elections,” Ruto stated.
The meeting included former Judge Effie Owour, former Burundi President Domitien Ndayizeye, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
South Sudan’s instability began on December 15 when conflict erupted between government and opposition forces following President Salva Kiir’s accusation of an attempted coup by his former deputy Riek Machar and others. The ensuing civil war saw violence along ethnic lines, involving the Dinka and Nuer groups, and has spread to Jonglei, Upper Nile, and Unity states.
Despite multiple peace agreements and cease-fires in 2015, 2017, and 2018, primarily led by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), violence has persisted. The Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, which reinstated Machar as vice president in 2020, introduced a new power-sharing structure. However, ongoing attacks, failed peace deals, and unresolved issues, including security arrangements, institutional reforms, and electoral preparations, continue to pose challenges.
In May, Kenya renewed its commitment to resolving the South Sudan conflict by launching a high-level mediation team named “Tumaini” (Swahili for “hope”). President Ruto appointed Major Gen (Rtd) Lazarus Sumbeiywo to lead the mediation efforts between Kiir’s government and rebel groups. Ahead of the talks’ start on May 10, Ruto expressed satisfaction with the progress of the peace process, highlighting the significance of stability in South Sudan and the broader region.
