Peace talks between South Sudan’s government and opposition representatives commenced in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, on Thursday.
The negotiations involve the government and rebel opposition groups that were not part of the 2018 agreement ending a five-year civil war.
However, some objectives outlined in the 2018 deal, such as the establishment of a unified security force, remain unfulfilled.
In anticipation of December’s elections and to ensure fair and transparent polls, the main opposition party called for renewed dialogue.
Several African presidents attending the talks emphasized the urgent need to end the conflict in South Sudan, which has severely impacted the country’s economy.
Among the leaders present are Salva Kiir of South Sudan, Lazarus Chakwera of Malawi, Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, Nangolo Mbumba of Namibia, and Faustin-Archange Touadera of the Central African Republic.
Kenyan President William Ruto, the host, highlighted the initiative as an illustration of Africa’s commitment to addressing its own challenges, contributing to the ‘Silencing the Guns in Africa’ initiative, and fostering an environment conducive to transformational development in South Sudan, the region, and the entire continent.
Expressing optimism, South Sudan’s president voiced hope for positive outcomes from the mediation ahead of the general elections.
“We hope that the opposition groups share our conviction and desire for peace in South Sudan, which, once achieved, will bring enduring stability and economic prosperity to the region,” he remarked.
