South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has travelled to South Africa for a diplomatic visit aimed at strengthening relations between the two countries and advancing regional discussions on peace and cooperation.
Speaking to journalists at Juba International Airport before the president’s departure, the press secretary in the Office of the President confirmed that President Kiir will hold high-level meetings with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and other officials in Johannesburg. The discussions are expected to focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation and exploring areas of mutual interest between the two nations.
South Sudan and South Africa share a long-standing historical relationship that has contributed to the development of strong diplomatic ties over the years. The visit is viewed as an opportunity to further deepen that partnership through dialogue and collaboration.
The trip also comes amid growing concern from the African Union (AU) regarding political developments in South Sudan. The AU Commission has called on South Sudanese leaders to reduce tensions and resume negotiations, particularly urging the release of opposition leader Dr Riek Machar and other political detainees in order to restart peace talks. According to the AU, political dialogue remains the most effective path to resolving the country’s disputes and maintaining stability.
During the visit, President Kiir is also expected to discuss outcomes from the recent Addis Ababa meeting with the AU’s C5 Chairperson, where regional leaders addressed several issues related to South Sudan’s political transition.
South Sudan is currently preparing for national elections scheduled for December 2026, which will mark the end of the country’s transitional period. Officials say the diplomatic engagement with South Africa forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen international partnerships while supporting the country’s political and economic progress.
