Kenya Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Peace as President Ruto Meets South Sudan Church Leaders
The church leaders updated the President on the situation unfolding in South Sudan, pointing out challenges that remained in place and opportunities toward entrenching peace.
President Ruto emphasized that a stable and prosperous South Sudan is of paramount importance not only to its people but to the development and security of the entire region as a whole. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Kenya has reiterated its commitment to the consolidation of peace and democratic governance in the region, saying stability in South Sudan is still vital towards the prosperity of East Africa. The Head of State spoke after hosting a delegation from the South Sudan Council of Churches at State House, Nairobi, where discussions focused on the political and humanitarian situation in Africa’s youngest nation.
President Ruto said Kenya remains firm in support for regional efforts that seek dialogue, national cohesion, and lasting stability for South Sudan. He emphasized that a stable and prosperous South Sudan is of paramount importance not only to its people but to the development and security of the entire region as a whole.
“Kenya is committed to supporting all regional efforts that promote peace, stability, and democratic governance,” President Ruto said. “We strongly believe that a peaceful and prosperous South Sudan is essential for the progress of our region.”
During the meeting, the church leaders updated the President on the situation unfolding in South Sudan, pointing out challenges that remained in place and opportunities toward entrenching peace. They called for Kenya and regional partners to ramp up support for political dialogue, the constitution-making process, and preparations for the December 2026 elections, which hold prospects for shaping the democratic future of the country.
The delegation recognized the key role of religious institutions in building peace as churches continue to be at the center of reconciliation, social cohesion, and humanitarian response across South Sudan. They emphasized the need for more collaboration with Kenya to bolster mediation processes, foster unity amongst political actors, and support communities affected by conflict.
He assured the delegation that Kenya would continue working closely with all stakeholders, including religious leaders, government representatives, and regional bodies, to ensure that South Sudan remains on a steady path toward reconciliation and nation-building. He said Kenya is committed to contributing to initiatives that prioritize stability, conflict resolution, and inclusive governance.
“We will continue our efforts to collaborate with all stakeholders in pursuit of assuring that South Sudan stays the course toward reconciliation, unity, and democratic progress,” he said. “Our support is anchored in the belief that lasting peace in South Sudan will benefit her people and contribute to a more stable and prosperous region.”
The President also reiterated Kenya’s support for ongoing diplomatic engagements within the regional peace architecture, including IGAD-led processes and African Union mechanisms aimed at promoting durable peace. The meeting comes amid South Sudan’s preparations for a critical political transition, with elections due in 2026 expected to mark the country’s first national polls since independence. Kenya’s continued involvement signals its engagement in fostering stability and strengthening democratic institutions across the region.
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