Kenya to Renew Mediation Efforts for South Sudan in January 2025

Kenya will restart high-level mediation talks for South Sudan in January 2025 after setbacks in July 2024. In light of the HOPE Initiative, these discussions aim to include all factions in the peace process, enhancing the scope for lasting peace. The talks are critical for resolving ongoing political challenges in South Sudan, presenting a renewed opportunity for dialogue.

Kenya is poised to recommence high-level mediation discussions focused on South Sudan in January 2025 as part of the HOPE Initiative, which aims to promote enduring peace within the nation. These peace talks, which initiated in May 2024, faced interruptions in July due to difficulties in reconciling the current dialogue with the 2018 peace agreement of South Sudan. Nonetheless, agreements to restart discussions were made on November 6 between South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and Kenyan President William Ruto.

The mediation, termed “Tumaini,” which translates to “hope” in Swahili, is directed towards including South Sudan’s government and opposition groups not represented in the previous peace deal. The discussions will reconvene in Nairobi following a temporary intermission requested by South Sudan’s government for further consultations in Juba. Port Cultural, a key figure in the South Sudan Peace Initiative, emphasized that this break was intentional.

“It was a strategic pause to ensure broader inclusivity and participation in the peace process,” he assured. Lual Dao, Secretary-General of the South Sudan Opposition Movement Alliance, articulated the vital role of power-sharing, stating, “Restructuring the government is critical for achieving true peace.” Pagan Amum, leader of the Real Sudanese People’s Liberation Movement, also acknowledged advancements made in the negotiations, particularly regarding the constitutional process and upcoming consultative efforts engaging South Sudanese individuals domestically and abroad.

Despite obstacles such as postponed elections and financial issues, the Kenyan-led negotiations remain essential for the stability of South Sudan. The impending talks are critical as they present a renewed opportunity for addressing the longstanding political and security challenges that have plagued the region.

The South Sudan conflict, which erupted in December 2013 and escalated into a brutal civil war, has resulted in immense loss of life and displacement. The 2018 peace agreement was initially a significant step towards reconciliation, yet key factions within the country still remain excluded from meaningful participation. This has necessitated ongoing mediation efforts, particularly by neighboring Kenya which has a vested interest in the stability of the region. The HOPE Initiative reflects Kenya’s commitment to facilitating dialogue among South Sudan’s political actors to foster an environment of cooperation and lasting peace.

In conclusion, the resumption of high-level mediation talks by Kenya in January 2025 signifies a renewed commitment to addressing South Sudan’s political and security crises. The involvement of various stakeholders, including the previously excluded opposition groups, is essential for ensuring an inclusive peace process. The contributions from significant South Sudanese leaders emphasize the importance of restructuring governmental power to achieve sustainable peace, making the upcoming talks a crucial milestone in the pursuit of reconciliation and stability.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke