By Ebi Kesiena
The government of South Sudan and various rebel opposition groups have signed a “commitment declaration” for peace during high-level mediation talks held in Kenya.
This agreement marks a significant step toward resolving the long-standing conflict that has severely impacted South Sudan’s economy and stability.
The details of the agreement were not disclosed during the signing ceremony, which was attended by diplomats and representatives from civil society groups.
Notably, the rebel opposition groups involved in this new agreement were not part of the 2018 peace accord that ended South Sudan’s five-year civil war. That conflict resulted in the deaths of 400,000 people and displaced millions more.
Kenya’s foreign office hailed the agreement as a “first milestone” in the ongoing peace talks. These discussions have seen the warring parties pledge their commitment to ending violence and hostilities.
The high-level mediation talks, known as the Tumaini Initiative Swahili for “hope” were launched a week ago and are led by former Kenyan army commander Lazarus Sumbeiywo.
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir expressed gratitude to Kenyan President William Ruto for hosting the negotiations. The Tumaini Initiative aims to foster a stable and peaceful environment ahead of South Sudan’s scheduled elections in December.
However, the country remains politically fragile, partly due to the incomplete implementation of the 2018 peace agreement and ongoing conflicts driven by ethnic and political divisions.
The recent commitment to peace is a hopeful sign for South Sudan, which has struggled with internal strife since gaining independence in 2011. The international community, including regional actors, continues to support efforts to bring lasting peace and stability to the nation.
