Vice President Hussein Abdelbagi Joins Kiir at Peace Rally in Kuajok ‎

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‎ South Sudan Vice President Hussein Abdelbagi Akol joined President Salva Kiir Mayardit at a peace rally in Kuajok on Saturday, where leaders urged residents to embrace peace and unity ahead of South Sudan's planned general elections in December 2026. ‎ ‎Speaking to a large crowd gathered in the state capital, Hussein praised the people of Warrap for the warm welcome they gave President Kiir despite heavy rains. He said the turnout reflected the population's commitment to peace, stability, and national unity. ‎ ‎The vice president encouraged communities across Warrap State to avoid communal violence and work together to maintain peaceful coexistence as the country prepares for the upcoming elections. ‎ ‎VP. Hussein also highlighted the need to expand access to higher education. He reiterated his support for the establishment of public universities in Kuajok and Aweil, saying many students face difficulties accessing university education due to the lack of institutions closer t...

‎Kenya’s President Ruto Assumes Chairmanship of COMESA, Pledges to Deepen Regional Integration


‎Nairobi, Kenya 

Kenya’s President William Ruto has officially taken over as the new Chairperson of COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa), succeeding Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye. 

The transition occurred during the 24th COMESA Heads of State and Government Summit held in Nairobi on Thursday. 

‎Key Highlights & Strategic Priorities

‎1. Leadership Transition & Summit Attendance

‎President Ruto’s elevation comes at a critical time for regional integration efforts.

‎The summit drew heads of state, government envoys, and representatives from the African Union and development partners. 

‎South Sudan, while not a full member of COMESA, participates through the Regional Customs Transit Guarantee (RCTG) scheme. 

‎2. Focus on Economic & Social Integration

‎In his inaugural address, Ruto emphasized narrowing economic and social divides across member states:

‎“At the heart of our mission are our people and our shared determination to bridge the economic and social gaps that divide our region.” 

‎His vision centers on ensuring that the gains of regional cooperation are equitably shared among citizens.

‎3. Commitment to Equity and Inclusiveness

‎Ruto’s leadership pledge underscores a shift toward inclusion, justice, and more balanced development.

‎By targeting inequalities, he aims to make COMESA’s benefits such as trade, infrastructure, and mobility accessible to all member countries’ populations.

‎Implications & What to Watch

‎Trade & Investment Flows: Under Ruto’s chairmanship, we may see renewed efforts to reduce trade barriers and harmonize customs procedures across the COMESA bloc.

‎Infrastructure & Connectivity: Enhancing physical and digital connectivity among member states may become a higher priority.

‎Social Cohesion: Programs that address cross-border inequality, labor mobility, and shared services (e.g., health, education) might gain front-line status.

‎South Sudan’s Role: Although a non-full member, South Sudan’s participation in the RCTG scheme positions it to benefit from improved trade facilitation policies.

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