The Ambassador-designate of South Sudan to Ghana, Jacquiline Natepi Ben Lochalamoi has presented her Open Letters to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, formally initiating the diplomatic process ahead of the commencement of her tenure in Ghana.
The Open Letters were presented to the Chief Director of the Ministry, Khadija Iddrisu, on March 30, 2026, as both countries seek to consolidate bilateral relations and expand cooperation across various sectors. Ambassador Iddrisu congratulated Ambassador-designate Lochalamoi on her appointment and the confidence reposed in her by the Government of South Sudan.
She underscored the importance of strengthening Ghana–South Sudan relations in areas of mutual interest, including governance, peacebuilding, trade, and capacity development. Ambassador Iddrisu further emphasized the need for deeper continental collaboration to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development across Africa.
Ghana and South Sudan share longstanding diplomatic ties that date back to the pre-independence period of South Sudan. Ghana was notably the first Sub-Saharan African country where South Sudan established an embassy in Accra, reflecting the strong diplomatic bonds between the two nations. Ghana also played a significant role in supporting South Sudan’s independence aspirations, with prominent Ghanaian statesmen, including J. H. Mensah, contributing to advocacy efforts that supported the country’s self-determination.
South Sudan gained independence on July 9, 2011, following decades of civil war with Sudan. The independence followed the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which ended Africa’s longest-running civil conflict and paved the way for a referendum in January 2011.
In the referendum, nearly 99 percent of South Sudanese voters chose independence, leading to the birth of the world’s newest nation. Ghana was among the African countries that strongly supported South Sudan’s independence and has since continued to contribute to its political and democratic development.
Ambassador Iddrisu noted that Ghana’s democratic governance and institutional development have served as a reference point for South Sudan’s foundational state-building efforts. She stressed that continued collaboration between the two countries would help strengthen democratic institutions and promote inclusive governance.
Ghana has also demonstrated strong commitment to peace and stability in South Sudan through its participation in peacekeeping missions under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. Ghanaian troops deployed in areas such as Aweil have played key roles in maintaining security and protecting civilians.
In recognition of their efforts, 150 Ghanaian troops serving in South Sudan’s Sector West were awarded peacekeeping medals by Wang Chuanjin after completing 90 days of service. The awards highlighted Ghana’s continued contribution to peacebuilding and humanitarian efforts in the conflict-affected country.
Ghana has also reaffirmed its broader commitment to peace and cooperation in the region. During a visit by Gariballa Khidir Ali, concerns were raised over the humanitarian situation in Sudan, including the tragic events of October 26, 2025, which reportedly claimed thousands of civilian lives.
Responding to the situation, James Gyakye Quayson condemned atrocities against civilians and emphasized that continued arms supply and external interference prolonged the suffering of affected populations. He reaffirmed Ghana’s readiness to work with Sudan, South Sudan, and other African partners to promote peace, stability, and economic cooperation.
The Deputy Minister also highlighted the importance of strengthening intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area, noting that sustainable peace remains essential for economic growth and regional integration.
The presentation of Open Letters by Ambassador-designate Lochalamoi marks a renewed phase in Ghana–South Sudan relations, with expectations of deeper diplomatic engagement, enhanced economic cooperation, and strengthened collaboration in peacebuilding and continental development initiatives.
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