By Bida Elly David
Newly appointed Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Special Envoy to Sudan, Lawrence Korbandy has met South Sudanese President Salva Kiir to discuss ways to promote peace in neighboring Sudan.
According to office of the President, Mr. Korbandy and President Kiir discussed on ways of promoting dialogue through diplomatic acumen among the warring parties in Sudan.
Korbandy reportedly briefed Kiir on strategies for peace and stability in Sudan, commending his past efforts in the region.
“Despite President Kiir’s leadership of the Eastern African Community, Mr. Lawrence still needs his support for Sudanese peace efforts,” the statement added.
The IGAD envoy also praised Kiir’s leadership at both national and regional levels, while emphasizing the need for dialogue to “rescue Sudan from unrest.”
This renewed push for South Sudan’s involvement in Sudan’s search for peace comes after IGAD previously appointed Kiir to chair the Sudanese conflict mediation committee in 2023.
However, he was later succeeded by Kenyan President William Ruto.
South Sudan’s Finance Minister Awow Daniel recently highlighted the negative economic impact of the Sudanese conflict, citing disruptions in fuel production.
This has fueled calls for the South Sudanese government to actively support Sudanese peace efforts, potentially through advocating for amnesty, to stabilize the regional economy.