President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Thursday held high-level discussions with South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who also serves as Pretoria’s Special Envoy to South Sudan, focusing on the progress and challenges surrounding the implementation of the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS).
The meeting, held at the State House in Juba, comes as South Sudan edges closer to the end of its transitional period — with elections expected in December 2026.
The talks highlighted the need for renewed momentum in executing key provisions of the peace accord, particularly in security unification, constitutional reforms, and election preparedness.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Ambassador Simon Duku, South Sudan’s envoy to South Africa, described the visit as a strong signal of Pretoria’s continued engagement in South Sudan’s peace process.
“The visit demonstrates South Africa’s unwavering commitment to supporting South Sudan’s democratic transition,” Ambassador Duku said.
“It also strengthens our political and economic cooperation as partners in peace and development.”
For his part, South African Ambassador to South Sudan, Mahlodi Muofhe, said the discussions between the two leaders were cordial and constructive, reaffirming that the implementation of the peace agreement remains central to lasting stability in the country.
Muofhe added that both nations are exploring expanded cooperation in investment and economic development, viewing peace and stability as the foundation for growth.
Officials highlighted the historical bond between Juba and Pretoria, recalling South Africa’s long-standing support during South Sudan’s liberation struggle.
That shared history, they said, continues to define a robust partnership in peacebuilding, governance, and regional stability.
South Africa is one of the guarantor states of the 2018 peace deal, alongside countries such as Sudan, Uganda, and Kenya.
Its involvement has been instrumental in facilitating political dialogue and confidence-building among South Sudan’s parties.
The Kiir–Mashatile meeting comes at a critical moment. While the peace agreement has reduced large-scale violence and opened political space, implementation delays persist.
Key milestones — including the formation of a unified national army and the completion of the permanent constitution — remain incomplete.
South Africa’s renewed engagement, they note, aims to reinvigorate political will and maintain international confidence in South Sudan’s transition process.
“The peace agreement is the country’s best chance for stability,” one observer noted. “But it requires consistent follow-through, not just commitment on paper.”
The 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement laid out the framework for power-sharing, constitutional development, and eventual democratic elections.
With the transitional period entering its final stretch, both domestic and international actors are urging swift implementation to prevent setbacks.
