Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri has reaffirmed Kenya's commitment to the South Sudan peace process, following a high-level meeting with the head of the ceasefire monitoring body.
During a meeting on Tuesday, August 5, with Major General Teshome Anagaw, the Chairperson of the Ceasefire & Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring & Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), General Kahariri underscored Kenya’s resolve to continue its vital peacekeeping role in the war-torn nation.
General Kahariri, speaking from Defence Headquarters in Nairobi, emphasized that Kenya’s involvement goes beyond a military duty, calling it a "moral responsibility."
He stated that a peaceful and stable South Sudan is not merely a regional imperative but is crucial for the security and prosperity of all East African countries.
“Peace in South Sudan is not just a regional imperative. It is a moral responsibility for the security and prosperity of our region. CTSAMVM’s role is critical in ensuring that all parties uphold the ceasefire and move towards lasting peace. Kenya remains committed to this mission and to the broader commitment to IGAD and regional peace efforts,” General Kahariri stated.
The CDF confirmed that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) stands ready to provide a full range of support. This includes deploying additional personnel, offering specialized military expertise, and ensuring a consistent supply of logistical support to the peacekeeping mission on the ground.
The meeting took place as Kenya continues to play a pivotal role as a key guarantor of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
Major General Anagaw, on his part, provided an update on the progress and challenges facing the CTSAMVM as it works to monitor compliance with the peace agreement.
As a key guarantor of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), Kenya plays a vital role in promoting dialogue, regional cooperation, and lasting peace in South Sudan.
In a related effort, President William Ruto confirmed on March 6 that he had spoken with South Sudan's president, Salva Kiir Mayardit, to help resolve the country's political deadlock.
Acting as the chairperson of the East African Community (EAC), Ruto urged President Mayardit and First Vice-President Riek Machar to engage in dialogue about the worsening security situation.
"This morning, I spoke with President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan and First Vice-President Riek Machar about the escalating security situation in the country.”
''I implored both leaders to engage in dialogue towards fostering peace in the country even as the region works towards the stabilization of South Sudan under IGAD's Strategic Framework,'' Ruto shared in the statement.
