The United Nations Mission chief in South Sudan, Nicholas Haysom, has died, with leaders paying tribute globally.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, led condolences, describing Mr Haysom as a “distinguished diplomat” whose lifelong commitment to peace and justice left a lasting mark across multiple conflict zones.
Mr Haysom had served as Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) since January 2021.
During his tenure, he played a central role in supporting South Sudan’s fragile peace process and advocating for an inclusive political transition.
A veteran mediator and constitutional expert, he brought decades of experience from United Nations assignments in Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan and Iraq.
Colleagues say his approach combined quiet diplomacy with firm advocacy for democratic governance and the rule of law.
In a statement, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) praised Mr Haysom as a “steadfast partner” in advancing the implementation of South Sudan’s revitalised peace agreement, crediting his leadership with helping sustain dialogue during critical moments.
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said Mr Haysom would be remembered as “a trusted partner and a dear friend”, highlighting his role in supporting peace efforts across Africa.
Before joining the United Nations, Mr Haysom was deeply involved in South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle, working alongside leaders of the democratic transition, including Nelson Mandela.
His legal and constitutional work during that period helped shape his later career as an international mediator.
As head of UNMISS, he consistently emphasised that the aspirations of the South Sudanese people should remain at the centre of the country’s political future.
He was a vocal advocate for dialogue, inclusion and the protection of civilians.
Tributes also came from civil society, including prominent South Sudanese activist Edmund Yakani, who praised Mr Haysom’s “commitment to listening” and his efforts to engage communities beyond political elites.
Mr Haysom’s death has been met with condolences to his family, colleagues across the United Nations system, and the people of South Africa, where he was born and began his career.
He is widely remembered as a principled diplomat whose work helped shape peace processes in some of the world’s most complex conflicts.
