A major highlight of the visit was President Ruto’s acknowledgment of Kenya’s pivotal role in hosting peace negotiations between South Sudan’s government and holdout groups

By Emmanuel Mandella

In a move at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties, President William Ruto of Kenya paid an official visit to Juba at the invitation of President Salva Kiir of South Sudan. The high-level discussions, held on Wednesday, November 6, highlighted mutual cooperation, peace efforts, and critical infrastructure projects between the two nations.

The meeting, described as cordial and constructive, underscored the deep-rooted friendship between Kenya and South Sudan. President Ruto commended the collaborative spirit, noting, “Kenya has always cherished its brotherly relationship with South Sudan. Today’s discussions pave the way for deeper engagements and regional stability.”

A major highlight of the visit was President Ruto’s acknowledgment of Kenya’s pivotal role in hosting peace negotiations between South Sudan’s Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGONU) and holdout groups linked to the R-ARCSS Peace Agreement. Both leaders praised the progress made, revealing that nine critical protocols had been initialed.

President Kiir emphasized, “The constructive dialogue has demonstrated the commitment of all parties toward peace and unity. We are on the brink of significant breakthroughs.”

To push forward the peace process, Presidents Kiir and Ruto directed the mediation teams to resolve remaining issues within two weeks. The leaders further agreed to secure regional support for the Tumaini Initiative, calling on IGAD to rally resources and the international community’s backing, including the TROIKA countries, for comprehensive implementation.

The discussions also covered measures to strengthen Kenya-South Sudan relations. Recognizing the shared historical bonds, the leaders agreed to convene the second session of the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) in South Sudan. This session will review and evaluate progress in various collaborative projects.

One of the most critical areas discussed was the advancement of infrastructure, particularly the 11-kilometer Nadapal to Nakodok road—a cross-border project pivotal for trade and movement. “This road is not just an infrastructure project; it is a lifeline for economic growth and enhanced connectivity between our people,” President Ruto stated.

Both Heads of State acknowledged the importance of securing the World Bank’s financial facility for the project, which is set to expire on November 8, 2024. They directed their respective Ministers of Roads to engage the World Bank’s regional office in Nairobi immediately to finalize a way forward.

Concluding his visit, President Ruto expressed heartfelt thanks to President Kiir and the people of South Sudan for their warm reception. “The hospitality we received here is a testament to the strong ties that bind our nations,” Ruto remarked.

The leaders’ joint communiqué reaffirmed their commitment to fostering peace, regional cooperation, and economic prosperity. As both nations look forward to the implementation of these initiatives, the visit marks a pivotal moment in bolstering regional ties and addressing long-standing challenges.

The discussions in Juba signal a renewed commitment to peace and cooperation, with tangible steps laid out for sustained progress.

The coming two weeks would be a beehive of activities, as mediators race against time to finalize on the remaining protocols to align the country with the set timelines of its key processes, and to create cohesion and lasting peace among its people.

Early this week, on Tuesday, President Ruto met opposition parties’ representatives to the Tumaini Initiative, who, according to the Kenyan Presidency, ‘confirmed their readiness to sign the Tumaini Consensus, the product of sustained inclusive negotiations.’

“I will be meeting His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit in an engagement that leads us towards the final signature and implementation of the Tumaini Initiative,” Ruto announced in his official social media page on Tuesday.

The Kenyan head of state had earlier met the South Sudanese high-level committee, where they shared a brief from President Kiir, including some suggestions on the ongoing peace initiative.

Already, observers, notably the civil society members, have cautioned against exclusion, advising that the engagements should respect the terms of the 2018 peace deal and address the concerns of all stakeholders, including opposition groups.

“We must ensure that this process reinforces, not undermines, the strides already made,” said anonymous activist.

“I will be meeting His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit in an engagement that leads us towards the final signature and implementation of the Tumaini Initiative,” Ruto announced in his official social media page on Tuesday.