JUBA – A delegation from the South Sudan Women’s Mediators (SSWM) held a high-level consultative meeting with the African Union Mission in South Sudan on Friday, 5 June 2026, at the AU Mission offices in Juba. The meeting focused on advancing peace, political stability, inclusive dialogue, and credible electoral preparations in the world’s youngest nation.
Ms. Kevina Aber presented the South Sudan Women’s Mediators Position Paper on behalf of the organization, outlining key concerns and recommendations regarding the country’s political trajectory. The presentation called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the release of political detainees, genuine and inclusive national political dialogue, and meaningful participation of women in peace and political processes. The delegation further urged transparent and credible electoral preparations, greater accountability by South Sudanese stakeholders, and the expedited launch of a new mediation process under H.E. Jakaya Kikwete.
The Ambassador of the African Union Mission in South Sudan, accompanied by Dr. Prosper Addo, Senior Political Officer, received the delegation and expressed appreciation for SSWM’s continued engagement. The Ambassador noted that the priorities presented by SSWM align with the objectives of the AU C5 process and ongoing regional efforts led by the African Union and IGAD.
“We are not South Sudanese. It is South Sudanese who must take responsibility and ownership of the future they want for their country,” the Ambassador stated, emphasizing that sustainable change must be driven by South Sudan’s citizens. He observed that despite political differences, all South Sudanese share common aspirations for access to clean water, quality education, peace and security, and economic opportunities.
Elections and Transitional Arrangements Discussed: The meeting addressed critical questions surrounding South Sudan’s electoral roadmap. The Ambassador reaffirmed the AU’s desire to see credible, peaceful, transparent, and inclusive elections but questioned whether all necessary conditions are currently in place. He stressed that the government must demonstrate clear commitment, provide adequate funding to the National Elections Commission, and establish clear benchmarks and timelines.
Upcoming AU Engagement: The Ambassador outlined several high-level AU engagements planned for South Sudan, including the return of H.E. Ambassador Jakaya Kikwete for a targeted follow-up mission on 17 June 2026, consultations on the unification of forces, meetings with the National Elections Commission and Political Parties Council, and a forthcoming visit by the Chair of the AU C5, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Africa.
Commitment to Continued Collaboration The meeting concluded with mutual appreciation and a shared commitment to continued collaboration. The AU Mission reaffirmed its readiness to engage with and support SSWM in advancing a peaceful, inclusive, and democratic future for South Sudan. The Ambassador assured the delegation that the AU remains available to receive recommendations, hold regular consultations, and facilitate discussions that strengthen women’s voices in national processes.
