President Salva Kiir has departed South Sudan for a high-level visit to the United Arab Emirates, where he is expected to engage in discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, attracting investment, and exploring partnerships in infrastructure and energy projects.
The visit, scheduled for two days, includes official meetings with senior Emirati leaders, as well as participation in economic forums designed to showcase South Sudan’s emerging opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, mining, and renewable energy.
A key agenda item is the potential for Emirati investment in South Sudan’s strategic infrastructure, particularly in road, port, and energy developments that could support regional trade and oil export capabilities. Officials say both sides will also explore cooperation on healthcare and education initiatives.
South Sudan’s delegation includes senior government ministers from finance, petroleum, and agriculture, signifying the country’s commitment to expanding its economic engagement and integrating into broader development networks.
In recent years, the UAE has launched several high-profile investments across Africa, and analysts see President Kiir’s visit as part of South Sudan’s strategy to diversify its international partnerships beyond traditional donor states.
A state minister accompanying the president highlighted that the trip represents a fresh opportunity to secure the funding and technical support necessary for South Sudan’s reconstruction and long-term economic resilience.
The visit also holds geopolitical significance, as South Sudan seeks to position itself as a stable investment environment in the Horn and East Africa region. Enhanced diplomatic ties with Gulf nations could open new trade corridors and bolster its international standing.
Following the visit, President Kiir and his delegation are expected to return with memoranda of understanding and potentially a set of investment pledges contingent on project feasibility studies and formal agreements.
As South Sudan navigates post-conflict recovery, this visit to the UAE is being seen as a milestone in its efforts to leverage global partnerships for sustainable development and national reconstruction goals.
