New South Sudan Envoy to Kenya Sets Four Priorities to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

By Awan Achiek

South Sudan’s newly appointed ambassador to Kenya, Simon Juach Deng, has unveiled a four-point diplomatic agenda aimed at deepening relations with Nairobi, with a focus on trade and investment, peace and security, political diplomacy and greater East African cooperation.

Ambassador Juach announced these commitments on Tuesday in Nairobi after formally presenting his letters of credence to Kenyan President William Ruto, marking the official start of his diplomatic assignment.

He stated that his tenure would focus on bolstering cooperation between the two neighboring countries while promoting shared economic, security, and regional interests.

“Your Excellency, my mission will be to translate this exceptional friendship between the Republic of South Sudan and the Republic of Kenya to benefit our peoples,” Juach said.

He also conveyed greetings and best wishes from South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit to President Ruto.

“It gives me great pleasure and honor to stand before you today to present the letters of recall of my predecessor and letters of my credentials as the Ambassador-Designate of the Republic of South Sudan to the Republic of Kenya,” he

stated. “Your Excellency, let me take this opportunity to convey to you warm greetings and best wishes from your brother, His Excellency Salva Kiir Mayardit of the Republic of South Sudan.”

For his part, Kenyan President William Ruto accepted Juach’s credentials and authorized him to represent the interests of the South Sudanese government in Kenya, in accordance with Kenyan law.

“I do accept your letters of credence and authorize you to pursue the interests of your government within Kenya’s territory, within the law, by promoting the mutual interests of the people of our two nations,” Ruto said.

Ruto congratulated Juach on his appointment, welcomed him to Kenya, and wished him success and God’s blessings during his tour of duty.

“Ambassador, good morning. Welcome to Nairobi and welcome to Kenya. Congratulations on your appointment. My very best wishes and success and God’s blessings on your tour of duty, and I look forward to working with you.”

Juach brings extensive diplomatic experience to his new role, having previously served in diplomatic missions in Uganda and Zimbabwe before being appointed Executive Director. He is expected to strengthen South Sudan’s regional diplomatic engagement.

South Sudan and Kenya share close political, economic, and people-to-people ties, with Kenya playing a significant role in South Sudan’s peace process, trade, and regional cooperation.