South Sudan-UAE Diplomatic Push
President Salva Kiir boarded a presidential jet from Juba on Saturday, beginning his third official trip to the United Arab Emirates this year. State television showed Vice-President Benjamin Bol Mel and other ministers bidding him farewell on the runway.
Press Secretary David Amuor Majur stated that Kiir will meet senior Emirati officials in Abu Dhabi to discuss deeper trade partnerships and measures to draw investors into South Sudan’s emerging markets.
Courtship of Gulf Investment
Juba hopes the talks unlock capital for oil, infrastructure and agriculture, sectors officials say can anchor long-term growth once the 2018 peace deal fully stabilises the country.
Kiir’s February visit laid groundwork for cooperation, while a ten-day mission in June reportedly focused on refinery upgrades and road corridors. Both sides signalled satisfaction yet concrete project announcements remain pending.
Regional Undercurrents
South Sudan’s overtures come as neighbouring Sudan freezes ties with the UAE, accusing Abu Dhabi of backing the Rapid Support Forces. Analysts note that Juba must balance friendships without appearing to take sides in Khartoum’s conflict.
Domestic Expectations
Political commentator Edmond Yakani welcomed the journey, calling it “positive if it delivers concrete results on the economic woes facing South Sudan.” He urged regular public briefings so citizens understand what each Gulf mission achieves.
Many residents in Juba, grappling with high prices and erratic fuel supplies, echo that sentiment. Their assessment of Kiir’s diplomacy will depend on visible improvements at petrol stations and job sites back home.
Flight Path Ahead
The presidency has not disclosed the trip’s duration, yet officials hint at a packed agenda stretching beyond investment to cultural cooperation and climate resilience.
Successive visits suggest a maturing rapport between Juba and Abu Dhabi, positioning South Sudan to diversify partners while maintaining cordial ties across the continent and the Gulf.