March 14, 2026 JUBA
The President of the Republic of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, departed Juba on Saturday morning for an official visit to South Africa, where he is expected to hold high-level talks with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and address regional diplomatic challenges.
According to a statement published on the official Facebook page of the Office of the President, the visit will focus on enhancing cooperation between the two countries and deepening their long-standing historical ties.Speaking to the media at Juba International Airport before the President’s departure, the Press Secretary in the Office of the President, Ms. Arek Aldo Deng, said the visit is an important diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
“President Kiir will hold discussions with President Ramaphosa to deepen the historical relations and cooperation between the two countries,” Arek said.She explained that the visit follows a recent meeting between the two leaders in Addis Ababa last month and comes after a previous diplomatic mission by the Presidential Special Envoy to South Africa.Arek further noted that the discussions between the two leaders are expected to address several areas of cooperation including economic development, institutional strengthening, and capacity building.
“The talks between the two sides are expected to focus on strengthening the historical ties binding the peoples of both nations, and expanding cooperation in the fields of economy, institutional building, and capacity development,” she said.South Sudan has faced a number of diplomatic and political challenges in recent years, including the implementation of peace agreements, national reconciliation, and efforts to stabilize the country after years of internal conflict.
The government has continued to rely on regional and international partners to support peacebuilding and institutional development.South Africa has historically played a significant role in supporting peace and political dialogue in South Sudan and across the African continent.
As one of Africa’s most influential diplomatic actors, Pretoria has often been involved in mediation efforts and initiatives aimed at promoting stability and governance.President Cyril Ramaphosa currently serves as the chair of the African Union’s Ad Hoc High-Level Committee on South Sudan, commonly referred to as the “C5 Committee.” The committee plays an important role in supporting the implementation of the peace process and facilitating dialogue among South Sudan’s political leaders.
Political analysts say the meeting between President Kiir and President Ramaphosa could help strengthen diplomatic support for South Sudan as the country continues to navigate complex political and economic challenges.Officials in Juba described the visit as an important step toward reinforcing diplomatic relations between South Sudan and South Africa while advancing common interests and cooperation between the two nations.
The Office of the President said the visit is expected to “contribute to deepen the bonds of relationship between the two countries to serve their common interests.”
