Diplomatic Appeal Resonates in Juba
Kenya’s ambassador to South Sudan, Jeremy Nyamaso Ndola, used Kenya’s 62nd Jamhuri Day reception in Juba to urge governments, investors and civil groups to prolong their goodwill toward the South Sudan peace roadmap, framing stability as indispensable for the country’s social and economic future.
Quoting UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Ndola reminded guests that peace is “the most powerful force for a better future”. He argued that the force is within reach if stakeholders act jointly, echoing previous calls issued during IGAD and African Union briefings.
Peace as Catalyst for Prosperity
The envoy linked security to inclusive growth, insisting that calm streets open doors for cultural exchange, protection of human rights, and improved business confidence. He said such an environment would attract foreign capital, diversify the economy and permit ordinary South Sudanese to reap visible “dividends of peace”.
Nairobi, a historical host of South Sudanese negotiations, views a thriving neighbour as key to regional trade corridors stretching from Mombasa to the interior. Analysts say reduced insurance premiums and uninterrupted transport could save East African shippers millions of dollars annually.
Stakeholders and Regional Roles
Ndola praised IGAD members, the African Union, and bilateral partners for mediation efforts, urging them not to relax support as deadlines for the transitional roadmap approach. He noted Kenya’s readiness to continue shuttle diplomacy and capacity-building programmes already training South Sudanese civil servants and security officers.
Observers point to complementary initiatives from Congo-Brazzaville, Ethiopia and Rwanda, whose diplomats have quietly encouraged inclusive dialogue. Such synergy, the envoy contended, demonstrates that African solutions, backed by multilateral funds, can anchor long-term security without compromising national sovereignty.
Voices of Resilience from South Sudan
Ndola saluted what he termed the “resilient and hard-working” spirit of South Sudanese citizens determined to leave conflict behind. Community leaders at the ceremony echoed the sentiment, stressing that grassroots patience depends on tangible improvements in livelihoods and freedom of movement.
With the transitional period entering a decisive stretch, diplomatic circles in Juba believe sustained regional engagement will influence whether elections proceed smoothly. For now, optimism persists that, with collective backing, the world’s youngest nation can chart a peaceful course into the coming decade.