By Philip Buda Ladu
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has entrusted the new Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, to consolidate and advance South Sudan’s foreign policy and project a positive global image of the country.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony held on Friday, President Kiir highlighted Ambassador Monday Semaya Kumba’s extensive experience in diplomacy and foreign affairs.
The Head of State expressed his confidence in Ambassador Kumba’s ability to effectively represent the nation on the international stage.
Chief Justice Chan Reec Madut administered the oath of office for minister Kumba at the office of the president.
In his address, Ambassador Monday thanked President Kiir for the trust bestowed upon him by appointing him to this important role.
He pledged his readiness to collaborate with colleagues within the Ministry to strengthen South Sudan’s diplomatic relations with other countries.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation holds a pivotal position in overseeing South Sudan’s diplomatic endeavors, representing the nation in regional and international forums, and actively promoting the country’s interests abroad.
The appointment of Ambassador Kumba follows a recent cabinet reshuffle where he replaced the former Foreign Minister, Ramadan Mohamed Abdalla Goc. The change was announced via a presidential decree broadcast on the state-run South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Wednesday.
While no official explanation was provided for the dismissal of Minister Goc, it occurred in the aftermath of a diplomatic dispute between South Sudan and the United States.
The row stemmed from South Sudan’s initial refusal to admit a Congolese man deported from the US. This led to the Trump administration imposing blanket visa restrictions on all South Sudanese passport holders.
However, following diplomatic pressure, South Sudan ultimately yielded to Washington’s demands on Tuesday, allowing the individual to enter the country.
Ambassador Monday Semaya Kumba, who previously served as the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, now takes on the senior role, tasked with navigating South Sudan’s foreign relations in a complex global landscape.
President Kiir’s directive underscores the importance of a cohesive and effective foreign policy for the young East African nation.