Russia to Open Embassy in Juba: A New Chapter in South Sudan–Russia Relations

Image
‎ ‎In a significant diplomatic move, the Russian Federation is preparing to open its embassy in South Sudan between September and October 2025, marking a major milestone in the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations. ‎ ‎The news was confirmed by South Sudan’s Ambassador to Russia, Chol Tong Mayay, during a farewell event for a South Sudanese ICT delegation that recently attended the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2025). ‎ ‎A Long-Awaited Diplomatic Presence ‎The planned opening of a Russian embassy in Juba is seen as a long-overdue development in South Sudan-Russia relations.  ‎ ‎Since South Sudan gained independence in 2011, Russia has maintained diplomatic accreditation to Juba from its embassy in Khartoum.  ‎ ‎The establishment of a permanent diplomatic mission in the South Sudanese capital is expected to significantly boost cooperation, streamline consular services, and facilitate more direct political, economic, and cultural exchanges....

President Kiir Sacks NCA Director General Napoleon Adok, Appoints Gieth Kon Mathiang ‎



‎In a surprise presidential decree, President Salva Kiir Mayardit dismissed Napoleon Adok Gai as the Director General of the National Communication Authority (NCA), a powerful regulatory body overseeing South Sudan’s telecommunications and internet sectors.

‎He has been replaced by Gieth Kon Mathiang, whose appointment takes immediate effect. The presidency did not offer an official explanation for the shake-up.

‎Napoleon Adok had held the position since 2020 and was instrumental in expanding digital infrastructure and implementing key regulatory frameworks intended to modernize South Sudan’s telecom industry. 

‎Under his leadership, the NCA launched initiatives to improve mobile connectivity, oversee licensing compliance, and promote local innovation in ICT. 

‎However, his tenure was also marked by criticism over high data costs and limited access to internet services in rural areas.

‎The new Director General, Gieth Kon Mathiang, is a relatively lesser known figure in the public domain. 


Observers say his appointment signals a possible shift in the government’s digital policy focus, particularly as the country prepares for national elections and strengthens information controls.

‎The change in leadership comes at a critical time as South Sudan continues to grapple with issues around cyber regulation, digital literacy, and growing public demand for online freedoms.

‎This development also raises questions about the government’s broader plans for restructuring national institutions, especially as President Kiir continues to reshuffle key officials across security, finance, and infrastructure sectors.

‎More updates to follow as this story develops.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

‎Land Dispute Turns Violent in Mayendit: Prison Officer Spears Woman Over Plot Ownership ‎

Russia to Open Embassy in Juba: A New Chapter in South Sudan–Russia Relations

Deadly Pox Outbreak in Rumbek Prisons Sparks Health Emergency in Lakes State