By Philip Buda Ladu
African Union Commission (AUC) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have reaffirmed their unwavering support for pursuit of peace in South Sudan.
This commitment was underscored during an official visit to Juba by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission along with IGAD deputy secretary from May 5th to 6th, 2025.
The visit, conducted in close coordination with IGAD, came at a crucial time as South Sudan progresses through its transitional period under the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
While in Juba, the AUC Chairperson held high-level consultations with H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit and other senior government officials.
AUC and IGAD in a joint communique issued on Tuesday, stated that their discussions centered on preserving the gains achieved through the peace agreement, fostering inclusive national dialogue and consensus, supporting the timely, credible, and transparent implementation of the transitional roadmap, and strengthening governance institutions.
According to a statement from the Office of the President, Kiir hosted the AU and IGAD delegation on Monday, May 5th, to specifically discuss the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement.
The delegation, led by African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, focused on accelerating the peace agreement’s implementation, enhancing regional peace and security, and promoting progressive democratic governance within South Sudan.
Minister of Presidential Affairs Chol Mawut Ajongo welcomed the visit, and recognized its importance in strengthening diplomatic and political engagement with the government and other stakeholders and gaining firsthand insights into the current situation in the country.
Chairperson Youssouf reiterated the mission’s solidarity with the people and government of South Sudan in their efforts to implement the peace accord.
He urged South Sudanese leaders to collaborate to complete the transitional roadmap and guide the young East African nation towards democratic elections.
In addition to engaging with South Sudanese authorities, the AUC Chairperson also met with regional and international partners, including the African diplomatic corps and TROIKA representatives, to enhance coordination and foster a unified approach to supporting South Sudan’s transition.
In a joint communiqué issued from Addis Ababa and Djibouti, the AUC and IGAD emphasized that peace, stability, and inclusive governance are essential foundations for South Sudan’s sustainable development and regional integration.
They further stressed the need for mutual trust, national cohesion, respect for political and civic space, and a continued commitment to dialogue and compromise.
Both the African Union and IGAD reaffirmed their full commitment to working collaboratively with the Government and people of South Sudan, as well as international and regional partners, to safeguard peace, uphold the principles of the R-ARCSS, and support a future built on unity, resilience, and prosperity.
The visit underscores the determination of continental and regional institutions to ensure South Sudan achieves lasting peace, stability, and democracy.