Juba | March 27, 2026
A memorial ceremony took place yesterday at the United Nations House in Juba to honor the life and service of Mr. Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), who died in New York on 17 March 2026.
The event brought together high-ranking government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the United Nations, and other international partners, all united in recognizing Mr. Haysom’s enduring contributions to peacebuilding and international diplomacy.
Vice President for the Economic Cluster, H.E. James Wani Igga, attended on behalf of President Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit. In his remarks, he praised Mr. Haysom as a dedicated advocate for peace and stability, noting that his death represents a profound loss for both South Sudan and the global community. He highlighted Haysom’s commitment to dialogue and reconciliation during some of the country’s most challenging moments.
Several senior officials also paid tribute, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Amb. Monday Semaya K. Kumba; UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix; and UN Deputy Special Representative Anita Kiki Gbeho. Speakers reflected on Haysom’s leadership, describing him as a skilled diplomat who consistently worked to foster unity and cooperation.
In an emotional address delivered via video link from South Africa, his daughter, Rebecca Haysom, spoke about the deep personal loss felt by the family. She expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and emphasized that her father’s values and legacy would continue to inspire others.Those gathered observed the occasion with solemn respect, remembering a man whose career was defined by service, justice, and a commitment to resolving conflict through peaceful means.
Nicholas Haysom was a South African lawyer and senior United Nations official known for his extensive work in mediation and peace processes across several regions. He passed away in New York on 17 March 2026 at the age of 72 after an illness. Throughout his career, he held key roles in UN peace operations, including leadership positions in South Sudan and Afghanistan, where he played an important role in advancing political dialogue and supporting fragile peace agreements.
