Mr. David Ashley, His Majesty’s new Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan – Courtesy of the British Embassy in Juba.

The British Embassy in Juba has announced the appointment of Mr David Ashley as His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan, effective January 2025. He will succeed Mr Guy Warrington, who previously held the post.

In a statement shared with Eye Radio, Mr Ashley expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating, “It is a great honour to be appointed as His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan. I look forward to arriving in Juba later this month and to continuing the United Kingdom’s efforts to support peace and development in the world’s youngest country.”

Mr. Ashley brings extensive diplomatic experience to his new position. Most recently, he served as His Majesty’s Ambassador to Madagascar from 2020 to 2024, and he has also held the role of non-resident Ambassador to Comoros.

Before this, Mr Ashley held key positions in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), including Deputy Head of the Near East Department, focusing on Syria and Iraq from 2018 to 2020, and Head of the Levant Team from 2011 to 2014.

Throughout his career, Mr Ashley has worked across various regions of strategic importance. He served as a Political Counsellor in Kabul from 2014 to 2016, offering expertise on regional political matters.  Additionally, he has held roles in Nairobi and Colombo, advising on conflict and security issues in East and South Asia.

His early career included work as Second Secretary for Political Affairs in Belgrade and as International Criminal Court Desk Officer at the FCO, focusing on war crimes issues.

With his vast experience in diplomacy, conflict resolution, and international relations, Mr Ashley is poised to strengthen the relationship between the United Kingdom and South Sudan, particularly in the areas of peacebuilding and development.

His appointment comes at a time when the UK continues its support for South Sudan’s efforts toward stability and growth.