JOHANNESBURG/JUBA — President Salva Kiir Mayardit arrived at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Saturday, March 14, 2026, commencing an official state visit to South Africa. The diplomatic mission aims to deepen historical ties. It also seeks to secure expanded economic cooperation with the administration of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Senior South African state officials officially received the president upon arrival. Simon Deng Akook, the chargé d’affaires of the South Sudanese Embassy in Pretoria, joined them.
The Diplomatic Agenda
Speaking to the press at Juba International Airport prior to the president’s departure, Press Secretary Hon. Arek Aldo Ajou outlined the strategic objectives of the trip. He framed it as a crucial step in South Sudan’s current foreign policy. It is also important for institutional development.
- Addis Ababa Follow-Up: The Johannesburg talks continue the high-level bilateral discussions. These discussions were initiated between Kiir and Ramaphosa last month. They began on the sidelines of the African Union Heads of State and Government Summit in Addis Ababa.
- Economic & Capacity Building: The official agenda focuses heavily on expanding cooperation in the economy. It also emphasizes institutional building and capacity development. This signals Juba’s intent to leverage South African expertise in statecraft and infrastructure.
- The “Special Program” Groundwork: Notably, Hon. Arek confirmed that the foundation for this presidential visit was recently laid. This happened during a preliminary diplomatic mission. The mission was conducted by the senior presidential envoy on special programs, Hon. Adut Salva Kiir.
“The talks between the two sides are expected to focus on strengthening the historical ties binding the peoples of both nations… a visit that will contribute to deepened bonds of relationship between the two countries to serve their mutual interests.” — Hon. Arek Aldo Ajou, Press Secretary
The Juba-Pretoria Axis
The relationship between South Sudan’s ruling SPLM and South Africa’s ANC is deeply rooted in historical liberation-era solidarity. South Sudan is navigating the complexities of its extended transitional period. The country also faces severe domestic economic pressures. Securing concrete developmental partnerships with regional economic powerhouses like South Africa is a critical priority for the Kiir administration.