South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile has arrived in Juba for a two-day working visit aimed at strengthening South Sudan’s fragile peace process ahead of the country’s national elections scheduled for December 2026.
Mashatile, who is visiting as President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Special Envoy, was received by South Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Monday Kumba.
During his visit, Mashatile is expected to hold meetings with President Salva Kiir and other key political stakeholders to review progress in implementing the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (RARCSS).
Signed in September 2018, the RARCSS provides a roadmap for South Sudan’s transition to democratic governance, including the drafting of a new constitution, the establishment of transitional security arrangements, and preparations for national elections.
The visit comes at a critical juncture as South Sudan continues to face political tensions, security concerns, and logistical challenges in its path toward the 2026 elections.
South Africa has long been a key supporter of peace and reconciliation efforts in South Sudan, leveraging its historical solidarity rooted in shared struggles for independence and self-determination. Over the years, the relationship between the two nations has evolved into a strategic partnership centered on conflict resolution, development cooperation, and institutional capacity building.
Source:Africa Publicity
