Kenya has commenced pre-mediation process to peacefully settle a political feud in South Sudan between the holdout groups and the Transitional Government of National Unity under President Salva Kiir.

President Kiir, in a statement broadcast by the state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation on Monday, received a letter from his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto, highlighting the focus on peace mediation efforts between the government and the holdout groups.

Kenyan envoy, Charles Keter, accompanied by South Sudanese ambassador to Nairobi, Chol Mawut Ajongo, said the letter contains the framework for resolving the differences between Juba and the holdout groups, noting that this signifies a renewed commitment towards promoting regional peace and stability.

The South Sudanese leaders, Keter said, have acknowledged the message and conveyed their determination to play an active role in restoring durable peace in the country.

On January 27, President Ruto received a list of government delegates from President Kiir, delivered by Presidential Special Envoy Albino Abwong in Nairobi.

During the Italy-Africa Summit in Rome, Ruto held discussions with officials of Sant’ Egidio and pledged Kenya would work closely with the former mediators.

The two parties were expected back to the negotiating table in May 2023, two months after the government withdrew its delegation, but it never happened.

In December 2023, President Kiir moved the talks to Kenya.