NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept. 2, 2024 — A coalition of over 22 Kenyan civil society organizations (CSOs) has expressed strong support for the Tumaini Initiative, a peace process aimed at restoring stability in South Sudan. In a joint statement, the CSO representatives commended South Sudan’s President Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit for initiating the peace process and praised opposition leaders for agreeing to negotiate for peace.
The group also lauded Kenya’s President, Dr. William Samoei Ruto, for hosting and facilitating the initiative. They urged President Ruto to deepen his support for South Sudan’s leadership in achieving a peaceful political settlement. The CSOs called for regional and international backing to ensure the initiative’s success.
Reflecting on Kenya’s historical role in South Sudan’s peace efforts, the statement highlighted the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) signed in Kenya, which led to South Sudan’s independence in 2011. The CSOs emphasized Kenya’s ongoing support through the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Despite initial progress after South Sudan’s independence, the statement noted that political crises and conflicts have dashed hopes for a prosperous nation. The CSOs urged all South Sudanese leaders to prioritize peace and compromise for the benefit of their people and the region.
Addressing the South Sudanese civil society, the Kenyan organizations acknowledged their commitment to peace and offered their solidarity. They also expressed willingness to share their expertise in negotiations, constitution-making, and democratic governance to support South Sudan’s journey towards lasting peace.
The statement concluded with an appeal to the mediators of the Tumaini Initiative, led by retired Gen. Lazaro Sumbeiywo, to ensure that the process remains inclusive, transparent, and centered on the aspirations of the South Sudanese people. The CSOs emphasized the importance of civil society participation in the peace negotiations and the implementation of the initiative’s outcomes.
Endorsements:
- Alfayo Dalai, Youth in Focus, Kenya
- Anna Kavinya, Ushauri Paralegal
- Betty Hamud Kangemi, Wetlands UHAKI Paralegal Network
- Brian Ochieng, One Kid One World
- Catherine Mutuku, Activista Group
- Charles Ogutu, Talanta CBO
- Cyprian Orina-Nyamwamu, The Future of Kenya Foundation
- Edwin Shamir, Together 4 Society
- Esther Mwikali, NERMA
- Geoffrey Okwaro, Nairobi Budget Champions
- Innocent Mbeya, Ustawi Ke
- Jacinta Kerubo, Nyamira SJC
- Leocadia Gaudencia, Ustawi Kenya
- Lilian Karuga, Nawiri Africa
- Margaret W. Nthiga, Impacted to Impact
- Paul Odunga, AWOCHE Foundation
- Raphael Torah, Ustawi Kenya
- Roseline Asena, OASIS-REI- CBO
- Thalma Marita, Youth Driven Solutions to Accountable Governance
- Triza Ajwang Omolo, Goodmother Foundation CBO
- Victoria Nthenya, Women for Women Empowerment CBO Kangundo
- Faith Kasina, Kayole Community Justice Center
