A delegation from the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has begun a five-day visit to Kenya, aiming to engage with key stakeholders to advance human rights and accountability for violations in South Sudan.
Led by Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission, and Barney Afako, a member, the delegation plans to meet with senior Kenyan officials, representatives of international organizations, and civil society leaders. According to an official statement, discussions will focus on upholding human rights, preventing further deterioration in South Sudan, and emphasizing justice and accountability within the peace process.
“Regional support, particularly from Kenya, is crucial to South Sudan’s transition,” the statement noted. It highlighted the need for Kenya’s continued role as a peace guarantor while advocating for South Sudan to develop a robust and independent judicial system. The Commission also underscored the significance of implementing recommendations from the Judicial Review Commission, including establishing impartial institutions to uphold the rule of law.
The visit coincides with ongoing mediation efforts in Nairobi under the Tumaini Initiative, aimed at resolving disputes between the South Sudanese government and groups that have not signed the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
“The Commission encourages integrating transitional justice into the Tumaini Initiative discussions to ensure accountability, truth-telling, and redress for victims—essential components of sustainable peace in South Sudan,” the statement added.
Established in 2016 by the UN Human Rights Council, the Commission operates as an independent body to investigate human rights conditions in South Sudan. Its mandate includes documenting violations, identifying those responsible under national or international law, and recommending measures to improve the situation. Supported by a Juba-based Secretariat, the Commission conducts independent interviews with victims, witnesses, and experts to inform its findings.