The delegation acknowledged progress but emphasized the need for immediate action on key issues, including security sector reforms, disarmament, and reintegration efforts

By Emmanuel Mandella

A high-level delegation from the African Union (AU) Ad Hoc High-Level Committee for South Sudan (C5) concluded a three-day solidarity visit to Juba, reaffirming the union’s commitment to supporting South Sudan’s journey toward lasting peace, stability, and credible elections in 2026.

The delegation was led by Ronald Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, and included representatives from Algeria, Chad, Nigeria, Rwanda, and the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye. Their mission from January 15 to 17, 2025, centered on assessing progress and challenges in implementing the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

During their engagements with President Salva Kiir, First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, and other key stakeholders, the delegation praised the government for upholding a six-year ceasefire but stressed the urgency of addressing critical transitional tasks.

“The people of South Sudan deserve peace, stability, and a government that reflects their democratic will,” said H.E. Lamola. “The extended transitional period provides a final opportunity to unify forces, complete institutional reforms, and pave the way for credible elections.”

The delegation acknowledged progress but emphasized the need for immediate action on key issues, including security sector reforms, disarmament, and reintegration efforts. They called for greater regional and international support, urging AU member states to deploy experts to assist in critical areas such as constitution-making, census preparation, and electoral processes.

The committee echoed growing calls from South Sudanese leaders to lift the arms embargo, highlighting its impact on unifying and deploying the Necessary United Forces (NUF) to safeguard national security.

Further, the delegation commended South Sudan for hosting refugees fleeing violence in Sudan and called on international donors to enhance funding for humanitarian efforts.

“South Sudan has shown remarkable solidarity in a time of crisis,” noted Ambassador Adeoye. “It is imperative that global partners match this commitment by supporting relief operations and post-conflict reconstruction efforts.”

The AU praised the ongoing Tumaini Peace Initiative, spearheaded by Kenyan President William Ruto, which seeks to include hold-out groups in South Sudan’s peace process. The initiative, the delegation noted, complements the R-ARCSS by fostering greater inclusivity and bolstering the country’s transition.

To ensure continued progress, AU proposed appointing a Special Representative for South Sudan at the level of a former head of state or prime minister to oversee the peace agreement’s implementation. They also announced plans for a high-level meeting on the margins of the upcoming AU Summit in February 2025 to discuss bolstered support for South Sudan.