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South Sudan’s Bol Mel Spearheads Diplomatic Efforts in Kampala

KAMPALA, Uganda, May 28, 2025 — In a significant stride towards regional cohesion, South Sudan’s Vice President for the Economic Cluster, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, attended his inaugural regional summit in Uganda’s capital. As President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s envoy, his mission centered on pivotal discussions about escalating conflicts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and broader regional instabilities.

The 12th High-Level Meeting of the Regional Oversight Mechanism for the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework (PSC Framework) brought together leaders to deliberate on the intensifying violence in eastern DRC, particularly the surge in M23 rebel attacks. The talks extended to address the ripple effects of ongoing turmoil in Sudan and the delicate political transitions in South Sudan.

Delegating Bol Mel to represent South Sudan, President Kiir reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to fostering regional stability, which he views as essential for sustainable economic growth.

Originally signed in 2013, the PSC Framework is a comprehensive agreement involving the DRC, its neighboring countries, and international allies. It aims to tackle a myriad of challenges including security reform, governance issues, and the underlying causes of conflict such as illicit mining, ethnic strife, and external meddling.

The participation of Vice President Bol Mel not only underscores South Sudan’s increased diplomatic engagement but also highlights his growing influence in regional politics. His press secretary, Oyiti Ajawin, emphasized the importance of this mission.

“H.E. the president has entrusted Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel to ensure South Sudan’s representation is clear and effective,” Ajawin stated.

In addition to his main agenda, Bol Mel is scheduled to conduct sideline discussions with various African leaders aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.

This diplomatic venture follows a significant political reshuffling back home. Just last week, President Kiir appointed Bol Mel as the First Deputy Chairman of the ruling SPLM party, a position previously held by James Wani Igga. Igga’s displacement in February as vice president sparked widespread speculation regarding Bol Mel’s swift ascent in national politics and his potential as a successor.

The implications of these developments are profound, both for South Sudan’s internal dynamics and its role on the regional stage. As the nation grapples with its own political challenges, Bol Mel’s diplomatic endeavors in Kampala could pave the way for a more stabilized and prosperous future, not just for South Sudan but for the entire Great Lakes region.