By Kei Emmanuel Duku
South Sudan Embassy in Nairobi has promised to settle accumulated salary arrears for both its Kenyan nationals and South Sudanese officials.
In a statement, the Embassy objected to an article on a regional newspaper, describing it misleading, regarding a protest by staff of Kenyan nationality over unpaid salary areas.
According to the Embassy, the new Head of Mission had already initiated steps to address the salary issue.
On Thursday, July 3, the Head of Mission held a 40-minute meeting with the legal representative of some Kenyan staff, attended by one of the concerned employees.
During the meeting, the Head of Mission acknowledged the arrears, explained the underlying challenges, and assured the lawyer that efforts were underway to find a lasting solution.
The lawyer appreciated the openness of the dialogue and submitted relevant documentation, including a letter addressed to Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.
These documents were shared with the Embassy for onward transmission to the Ministry in Juba.
However, the South Sudan Embassy in Kenya expressed surprise to learn that the matter had been shared with a journalist only hours after the diplomatic engagement with the aggrieved parties.
The Embassy further noted that on July 4, the Head of Mission convened a general meeting with all local staff, both Kenyan and South Sudanese, to discuss challenges affecting their work, including the unpaid salaries.
“We will continue to work with the Ministry to address staff concerns in a transparent and collaborative manner,” the embassy noted in commitment despite the country navigating a complex and sensitive post-conflict transition.
The Embassy expressed its appreciation to the Kenyan nationals who have served the mission since the days of the liberation struggle, working in SPLA offices and the South Sudan Liaison Office prior to independence.
“Their contributions are deeply appreciated, and they are often regarded as part of the mission’s institutional memory,” the embassy said.
The Embassy also reiterated its sincere appreciation for Kenya’s invaluable and unwavering support, which continues to reflect the strong bonds between the two peoples.
When contacted for comment, South Sudan Ambassador to Kenya could not be reached.
However, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Spokesperson, Apuk Ayel Maye did not also respond to multiple phone calls, text messages, and WhatsApp messages to her regarding authenticity of the document.