South Sudan and South Africa Discusses Cooperation and Roadmap toward Elections

(PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA) – South Sudan and South Africa have held a follow-up meeting on cooperation and the roadmap toward elections.

The high-level talks took place in Pretoria on March 16th, 2026, as part of ongoing engagements between the two countries aimed at supporting South Sudan’s transition to democratic elections.

South Sudan’s Minister of Presidential Affairs, Africano Mande Gedima, met with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, to review progress made since earlier discussions held this year in Addis Ababa on the sidelines of the African Union Summit.

The leaders reaffirmed key agreements reached during those talks, including the commitment not to extend the transitional period, the need to conduct elections as planned, and the principle of non-interference.

The meeting was also attended by South Sudan’s Chargé d’Affaires in South Africa, Ambassador Simon Deng Akook, who continues to support diplomatic relations between the two nations.

According to South Sudan’s Presidential Press Unit, discussions further focused on areas where South Africa can assist South Sudan, particularly in election support, institutional development, and facilitating dialogue.

South Africa reiterated its readiness to partner with South Sudan in promoting peace, democratic governance, and long-term stability.

Both countries concluded the meeting by reaffirming their strong historical ties and expressing optimism that continued cooperation will strengthen relations between the two nations.