President Salva Kiir waves prior to boarding his plane at Juba International Airport on Sunday, August 23, 2026, bound for high-level meetings in South Africa. (Photo: PPU)

President Salva Kiir has traveled to the Republic of South Africa for high-level diplomatic talks with President Cyril Ramaphosa, focusing on bilateral cooperation and South Sudan’s upcoming transition process, according to a statement from the Office of the President.

The visit marks President Kiir’s second official engagement in Pretoria in 2026, following his eight-day working visit in March, where he held consultations with President Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile regarding economic ties, security, and AU C5 initiative commitments.

The presidency stated that the current bilateral meeting will review progress on national electoral timelines, foster ongoing political dialogue, and bolster mutual support for a peaceful democratic transition.

President Kiir is also set to review the implementation of prior bilateral agreements reached with the South African leadership to track progress and address outstanding areas of collaboration, including economic cooperation and institutional building.

The consultations aim to chart a clear path forward as the country advances its transitional commitments, prioritizing peace, stability, and institutional strength.

The Office of the President emphasized that the visit reinforces long-standing relations between both nations at a critical juncture for the country.