According to a statement from Kiir’s office, the two leaders held discussions centred on electoral preparations, technical support, and broader economic cooperation between Juba and Pretoria, with a clear focus on ensuring credible polls in Africa’s youngest nation.
President Kiir reaffirmed his government’s commitment to holding elections as scheduled in December 2026, stressing that the process remains anchored in the Revitalised Peace Agreement. He said preparations are underway despite ongoing political and logistical challenges.
However, Kiir acknowledged that South Sudan would require substantial external support to deliver credible elections, particularly in technical and operational areas.
“South Sudan needs technical and logistical assistance to ensure the credibility of the upcoming polls,” the statement said, highlighting requests for support in printing ballot papers and supplying voter registration materials.
In response, President Ramaphosa welcomed Juba’s commitment to democratic transition and underscored the importance of inclusive and credible elections. He signalled Pretoria’s willingness to assist, including in the printing of ballot papers—an area often seen as critical to election integrity.
“South Africa is fully ready to support her sisterly country in every way possible,” Ramaphosa said, according to the statement, aligning his position with broader African Union-backed efforts to stabilise South Sudan’s transition.
The offer of electoral support comes at a sensitive time, as South Sudan faces mounting domestic and international pressure to implement key provisions of the peace agreement, including political reforms and security arrangements necessary for credible elections.
Beyond elections, the meeting also explored avenues for strengthening economic ties between the two countries. Kiir used the opportunity to invite South African investors to South Sudan, pointing to opportunities in mining, tourism, air transport, and the oil sector.
He said South Sudan is “open for business” and ready to partner with regional and international investors for mutual economic benefit.
The talks also carried a diplomatic tone, with Kiir conveying condolences to the people of South Africa over the death of Nicholas Haysom, the former head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), recognising his role in advancing the country’s peace process.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to deepening bilateral relations and working together to support peace, stability, and development in South Sudan.
South Africa, alongside the African Union and IGAD, is a guarantor of South Sudan’s peace process, positioning Pretoria as a key external actor in the country’s path toward its first elections since independence.
