(NAIROBI, KENYA) – Kenya has pledged support for South Sudan’s planned December 2026 General Election while reaffirming commitment to stronger trade and investment ties between the two neighbouring countries.
President William Ruto made the commitment on Monday after hosting South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit at State House, Nairobi, where the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and opportunities to expand economic cooperation.
The meeting focused on strengthening existing ties and opening more opportunities for businesses and citizens in both countries.
“We expressed satisfaction with the strong relations between our two nations and resolved to continue opening more opportunities for trade and investment for our citizens,” Ruto said.
The talks come as Kenya continues to pursue stronger regional economic integration, with South Sudan remaining an important market for Kenyan businesses and a partner in cross-border trade.
Ruto thanked Kiir for South Sudan’s participation in last week’s launch of the Dangote East Africa Refinery project in Lamu, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation in major investment initiatives.
The planned refinery is expected to strengthen the region’s energy and industrial sectors, with its proposed capacity and scale drawing attention to its potential impact on trade, transport and investment across East Africa.
On the political front, Ruto commended South Sudan for preparations towards the General Election scheduled for December 2026, saying Kenya was ready to support the process.
“Kenya stands ready to support South Sudan in this endeavor while encouraging dialogue and consensus among all parties,” he said.
The Kenyan President’s remarks place emphasis on dialogue and political consensus as South Sudan approaches the planned polls, which are an important milestone in the country’s political transition.
The two leaders’ discussions reflect Kenya’s interest in maintaining close diplomatic relations with Juba while expanding economic opportunities and supporting stability in the region.
The meeting also comes amid broader efforts by East African countries to deepen cooperation through trade, infrastructure investment and regional partnerships.
Kiir’s visit marked his first trip outside South Sudan following the dissolution of the Transitional Government of National Unity and the establishment of a caretaker administration.
South Sudan is scheduled to hold general elections on 22nd December 2026, intended to mark the end of the country’s prolonged transitional period.
The elections have been repeatedly delayed since independence in 2011.
According to Sifa FM, a Kenyan radio station, the meeting between Ruto and Kiir focused on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.
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