South Sudan Roundup: Peace pact with rebels, forex trade, floods
South Sudan government signs peace agreement with rebel leaders
On May 16, 2024, South Sudanese rebel opposition groups and officials signed a peace deal at the Tumaini Initiative peace talks in Nairobi, Kenya. According to Global South World, the agreement was signed in the presence of senior government officials, diplomats, opposition groups, civil society members, and bilateral partners, aiming to establish a foundation for lasting peace in South Sudan.
Humanitarian aid talks
The Sudanese government and SPLM-North have begun talks in Juba to reach a ceasefire agreement allowing humanitarian aid delivery to conflict-affected areas. The South Sudanese government is mediating the sessions, and the goal is to facilitate the delivery of essential supplies to those in need. According to Radio Tamazuj, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-North) delegation, led by Abdelaziz Adam al-Hilu.delegation emphasised the urgent need for humanitarian assistance, while Sudan's Defense Minister Major General Ibrahim Yassin highlighted the importance of a cessation of hostilities for aid delivery.
Justice delivery boost
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) organised a three-day workshop for justice actors in Gogrial West County, which focused on strengthening the criminal justice chain. The workshop addressed crucial topics such as criminal law principles, gender issues, and children's rights, and emphasized the importance of integrity and interconnectivity among justice actors. Participants shared their perspectives and committed to collaborative efforts to enhance the legal framework. As reported by Social News XYZ, the workshop provided practical solutions and emphasised the importance of applying the knowledge gained to serve communities with integrity. The High Court President advised justice actors to exercise their duties independently and without political interference. The workshop was commended for enhancing justice delivery.
Warnings of severe floods
On Thursday, May 16, South Sudan issued a warning of severe flooding as water levels in Lake Victoria, a source of the Nile, reached a record high. Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Pal Mai Deng, reported receiving information from neighbouring Uganda indicating that Lake Victoria's water levels have risen by 13.6 meters, the highest in the Nile Basin region in 128 years. According to a report by Xinhua, this surge has also elevated the water level in a dam in Jinja, Uganda. On Thursday, South Sudan issued a warning of severe flooding as water levels in Lake Victoria, a source of the Nile, reached a record high. Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Pal Mai Deng, reported receiving information from neighbouring Uganda indicating that Lake Victoria's water levels have risen by 13.6 meters, the highest in the Nile Basin region in 128 years. This surge has also elevated the water level in a dam in Jinja, Uganda.
Low forex trade
South Sudan's forex reserves are at a historic low, leading to inflationary pressures and a weakening currency. According to Zawya, declining oil revenues and geopolitical tensions are contributing to the economic woes. The country is struggling with high inflation and debt distress and faces challenges from the conflict in neighbouring Sudan. The upcoming general election is adding to the economic strain. The Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) has suspended the use of US dollars in the local economy to address the forex demand and inflation.
