H.E. Jakaya Kikwete, AU High Representative for the Horn of Africa, is pictured in discussion with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Amb. Akuei Bona Malwal, shortly after his arrival at Juba International Airport. The visit underscores the African Union's unwavering commitment to advancing peace, stability, and the revitalized peace process in the Republic of South Sudan.. 📸 Credit: MoFA&IC

Former Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete arrived in the capital on Wednesday morning for a diplomatic mission aimed at breaking the political deadlock in South Sudan.

Upon his arrival at Juba International Airport, the African Union (AU) High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea was received by the Honourable Ambassador Akuei Bona Malwal, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, this visit reflects the continued engagement between the Republic of South Sudan and the African Union in advancing peace, stability, and regional cooperation.

In a schedule obtained by Eye Radio, Envoy Kikwete began his mission with a briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Later on Wednesday, April 8, he is scheduled to join a consultative session with national ministers and representatives of various political parties in a meeting chaired by the Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro.

The Envoy’s first day also includes a sit-down with the SPLM Secretary General, Dr. Akol Paul Kordit, as he seeks a wide range of perspectives on the current crisis.

Meanwhile, Kikwete will spend the afternoon engaging with civil society organizations and members of the academia to discuss the challenges facing the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.

On Thursday, the diplomatic engagement will shift toward international stakeholders.

The AU Envoy will meet with African diplomats, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Discussions will also extend to the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), the Troika countries—consisting of the United States, United Kingdom, and Norway—as well as representatives from the European Union.

The visit will culminate on Thursday with a critical meeting between President Salva Kiir and the AU Envoy at the Presidential Palace.

The two leaders are expected to review the progress of the peace process and the implementation of recent regional resolutions before Kikwete departs Juba the next day.

The arrival of the former Tanzanian leader is seen as a vital step in the African Union’s renewed effort to stabilize the region and foster inclusive dialogue among all South Sudanese parties.