President William Ruto departed for Juba, South Sudan, on Wednesday for an official visit aimed at bolstering South Sudan’s political transition through the Tumaini Peace Consensus. This peace initiative, championed by South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and supported by Kenya and international partners, seeks to establish a lasting foundation for stability and development in South Sudan.
State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohammed noted that this visit follows President Kiir’s recent trip to Nairobi on August 27, where he participated in the launch of Kenya’s African Union Commission candidacy. During the Nairobi visit, both leaders affirmed their commitment to shared regional growth, cooperation, and sustainable development.
“The Tumaini initiative, proposed by President Kiir, represents a model for inclusive peace-building and has advanced over six months of discussions with South Sudanese stakeholders,” read part of the official statement.
Additionally, the talks between the two presidents will cover strategic infrastructure projects, such as the LAPSSET Corridor, aimed at enhancing trade and connectivity between South Sudan and the Indian Ocean. Once completed, the corridor’s critical road links are expected to reduce transportation costs, improve access, and drive economic growth, supporting the vision of a unified East Africa.
The leaders are also expected to discuss the African Union’s future, with President Kiir reiterating his support for Kenya’s bid for the AU Commission Chairmanship, underscoring the close partnership between the two nations within the continental organization.
