Deputy President Paul Mashatile has successfully concluded a bilateral meeting with the President of the Republic of South Sudan, Salva Kiir Mayardit, at the Menlyn Maine Hotel in Pretoria.
“South Africa remains steadfast in its support for the people of South Sudan as they advance toward sustainable peace, democratic governance, and inclusive development," Mashatile said on Friday.
The Deputy President, as the President's special envoy, focusing on South Sudan, met President Mayardit on his Working Visit to South Africa to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation, progress on peace and political processes in South Sudan, and follow-up actions from the recent Ad Hoc High-Level Committee on South Sudan (C5) Plus engagements.
The role of the C5 is to oversee the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
“The two leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in key economic sectors, including mining, transport, and tourism. In this regard, both parties committed to jointly hosting a South Africa–South Sudan Business and Investment Conference, with the first leg scheduled to take place in Juba between May and June 2026,” the Presidency said.
The initiative aims to unlock investment opportunities and promote trade between the two countries.
The meeting also noted progress regarding ongoing engagements toward the possible introduction of a visa-free travel regime between South Africa and South Sudan.
Relevant departments are currently assessing feasibility, with recommendations expected by the end of April 2026.
“In addition, both countries underscored the importance of enhancing air connectivity, including efforts to establish direct flights between South Africa and Juba, with engagements with airlines reportedly underway, and a comprehensive aviation cooperation plan being expected in the coming months.
“President Kiir expressed appreciation for South Africa’s continued support in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS),” the Presidency said.
The R-ARCSS is a legal framework governing South Sudan's transition to peace.
The year 2026 marks a pivotal moment for South Sudan, as the country is earmarked to hold its first-ever elections since gaining independence from Sudan in July 2011.
The two Leaders discussed key priority areas emerging from recent C5 engagements, including: Support for inclusive political participation and civil society engagement in the lead-up to elections; Provision of technical assistance for electoral processes, including potential support from South Africa’s Electoral Commission (IEC); Progress on disarmament initiatives; and Preparations for South Sudan’s National Dialogue, scheduled for April 2026.
“South Africa has already committed to providing facilitators for the National Dialogue and to sharing its own experiences in national dialogue processes.
“The meeting also addressed recent political and judicial developments in South Sudan, including matters relating to Dr Riek Machar.
“Both parties emphasised the importance of respecting judicial processes and maintaining stability during this critical period. South Africa reiterated its commitment to the outcomes of the C5 engagements and to continued dialogue with all relevant stakeholders,” the Presidency said.
Deputy President Mashatile further reaffirmed South Africa’s intention to maintain a sustained presence in South Sudan to support ongoing peace and political processes.
He further encouraged South African businesses to explore investment opportunities in South Sudan.
As the two Leaders concluded the meeting, they both reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, promoting economic cooperation, and supporting lasting peace and stability in South Sudan.
President Mayardit also held a bilateral engagement and exchanged views on the latest political developments in South Sudan with President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday at his official residence in Pretoria, Mahlamba Ndlopfu. -SAnews.gov.za
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