South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has inaugurated the seventh iteration of the Governors Forum in Juba, which commenced on Tuesday. Initially scheduled for Monday, the event was delayed due to pressing commitments in the President’s office, as per sources. During the opening ceremony, President Kiir also administered the oath of office to three newly appointed ministers, emphasizing the importance of their roles in delivering essential services to the citizens.

The Governors Forum, established in 2006 by the President’s office with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other partners, serves as a critical platform for dialogue and policymaking. This forum predates South Sudan’s independence, offering a unique space for national leaders to engage in in-depth discussions on key issues such as social development, infrastructure, and security challenges facing the nation.

This year’s event saw the participation of various high-profile individuals, including local dignitaries, foreign diplomats, and international representatives, alongside civil society groups. It represents a significant annual occasion that unites leaders from across the country to deliberate on matters of national importance.