In a landmark gathering at State House, Nairobi, President William Ruto emphasized the critical need for unwavering commitment from all involved parties to secure lasting peace in South Sudan.
This call to action marks a significant step forward in the Tumaini Initiative, a high-level mediation effort aimed at quelling conflict and political turmoil in the troubled nation.
President Ruto underscored the inclusive nature of the mediation process, which has brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, representing eight distinct categories of parties and groups.
This holistic approach seeks to ensure that the mediation efforts are home-grown and representative of the aspirations and concerns of South Sudanese society.
“The Tumaini Initiative exemplifies the Pan-African policy of African solutions to African challenges,” President Ruto declared, highlighting its pivotal role in contributing to the broader ‘Silencing the Guns in Africa’ initiative. The ultimate goal is to foster an environment conducive to transformative development not only in South Sudan but across the entire African continent.
Joining President Ruto at the launch were several distinguished leaders, including President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan, President Lazarus Chakwera of Malawi, President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, Vice President Nangolo Mbumba of Namibia, and President Faustin-Archange Touadera of the Central African Republic. Also in attendance was the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, underscoring the regional and continental importance of the mediation efforts.
President Ruto commended the progress made by various South Sudanese factions, such as the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity, the Real-SPLM, and the South Sudan United Front, in advancing the mediation process. He encouraged these parties to envision and design a future that aligns with their noble aspirations for peace and prosperity.
Expressing Kenya’s steadfast commitment, President Ruto affirmed his country’s readiness to contribute significantly to ending cycles of conflict and instability in South Sudan. “I pledge my unwavering commitment and availability to support this process at any stage of the mediation roadmap,” he declared, reinforcing Kenya’s pivotal role in facilitating peace in the region.
In response, President Salva Kiir Mayardit extended gratitude to President Ruto for assuming a central role in the South Sudan peace process. President Kiir expressed hope that the mediation efforts would yield positive outcomes ahead of South Sudan’s upcoming general elections later this year.
President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia emphasized the importance of accommodation and genuine negotiation among all parties involved. “In today’s world, no one really wins the war; you may win a battle, but the war continues,” he reflected, urging a spirit of compromise and dialogue.
Lazarus Sumbeiywo, the chief mediator overseeing the South Sudan peace process, lauded the support of regional and international partners in advancing the mediation efforts. He emphasized that the mediation process would be sustained and continuous, provided that all parties remain committed to the outlined roadmap.
The launch of the high-level mediation initiative signals a new chapter in South Sudan’s journey towards sustainable peace and development. With the collective determination of regional leaders, international partners, and diverse stakeholders, there is optimism that the Tumaini Initiative will pave the way for a brighter and more stable future for the people of South Sudan and the broader African continent.
