South Sudan

South Sudan peace process marks milestone with signing of Tumaini Initiative

President Salva Kiir met with Lt. Gen (Rtd) Lazaro Sumbeiywo, the Head of Mediation of the South Sudan Peace Talks in Nairobi on April 25. (X/ South Sudan Government)

By Mwangi Maina | Thursday, May 16, 2024

This initiative aims to address the deep-rooted divisions and conflicts in South Sudan to achieve lasting peace in the country.

The high-level mediation effort for South Sudan ongoing in Nairobi on Thursday achieved a significant milestone with the signing of the first declaration of commitment to the Tumaini (Hope) Initiative for the South Sudan Peace Process.

Steered by ex-Kenya Army Commander, who is Chief Mediator Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Lazaro Sumbeiywo, this initiative aims to address the deep-rooted divisions and conflicts in South Sudan to achieve lasting peace in the country.

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Sumbeiywo spoke to the media at a Nairobi hotel after all stakeholders signed an agreement to participate in the mediation process.

The high level mediation for South Sudan hit its first milestone in the ongoing mediation process as the parties signed its first declaration of commitment to the Tumaini (Hope) Initiative for the South Sudan Peace Process led by Chief mediator, Lt. Gen. Lazaro Sumbeiywo.

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— State Department for Foreign Affairs | Kenya (@ForeignOfficeKE) May 16, 2024

He emphasised the importance of embracing a spirit of compromise. He urged all parties involved to take a give-and-take approach, emphasising the importance of resolving the long-standing issues that have plagued South Sudan since its independence in 2011.

"I am pleased that all opposition groups have agreed to engage with the government of South Sudan to address the issues that have led to internal conflicts since 2013," said General Sumbeiywo.

"It is time to put an end to the violence that has ripped communities apart and caused tremendous suffering."

During the signing ceremony, the Director of Peace and Security at the Foreign Office, Lenah Nyambu, represented Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir SingOei, commending the positive strides taken by the parties involved toward a sustainable peace solution in South Sudan.

The signing event brought together representatives from the South Sudanese government, opposition parties, observer groups, diplomatic missions, civil society, and other stakeholders, highlighting a collaborative effort towards peacebuilding in the region.