President Cyril Ramaphosa has held a bilateral meeting with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit in Pretoria, with discussions focusing on economic cooperation, institutional development, capacity building and preparations for South Sudan’s upcoming elections.

The meeting took place at Mahlamba Ndlopfu, the official residence of the South African President in Tshwane, during President Kiir’s working visit to South Africa from 23 to 31 August 2026.

Ramaphosa and Kiir Discuss Bilateral Cooperation

The bilateral meeting provided an opportunity for the two Heads of State to engage on areas of mutual interest and further strengthen relations between South Africa and South Sudan.

According to the Presidency, discussions focused on economic cooperation, institutional development and capacity building between the two countries.

These areas form part of broader efforts to deepen cooperation and support South Sudan’s development priorities.

South Sudan’s Elections Also on the Agenda

The two Presidents also discussed preparations for the South Sudanese elections, an important issue in the country’s political and institutional development.

The engagement between Ramaphosa and Kiir comes as South Sudan continues to navigate its political transition and preparations for the electoral process.

South Africa has maintained an interest in supporting peace, stability and democratic development on the African continent, including through diplomatic engagement with South Sudan.

South Africa and South Sudan Diplomatic Relations

South Africa and South Sudan established formal diplomatic relations in September 2012, shortly after South Sudan became an independent state.

Bilateral cooperation between the two countries is guided by a General Cooperation Agreement (GCA) signed in 2013.

The relationship has provided a framework for cooperation across areas of shared interest and continued diplomatic engagement between Pretoria and Juba.

Strengthening Relations Between Pretoria and Juba

President Kiir’s working visit provides an opportunity to further consolidate relations between South Africa and South Sudan.

The discussions between the two Heads of State underline the importance of continued cooperation in economic development, institutional strengthening and capacity building, while also providing space for dialogue on South Sudan’s political and electoral processes.

The Pretoria engagement reflects the two countries’ continued commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation in areas that support development and stability.