As set out in a formal announcement, The statement from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (dirco) on September 28, 2026, details President Cyril Ramaphosa’s scheduled convening of a virtual meeting of the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee on South Sudan (C5) and Member States of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). This action, occurring on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, marks a continuation of South Africa’s leadership within the C5, a bloc comprising South Africa, Algeria, Chad, Nigeria and Rwanda. The core purpose is to assess the situation in South Sudan ahead of the elections scheduled for December 22, 2026, and follow up on the outcomes of a February 15, 2026 Summit held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The fact that this meeting is virtual underscores the ongoing complexities surrounding the country’s political landscape – a landscape characterized by protracted instability and the need for careful, coordinated engagement.
Background
The C5’s formation stems from a recognition of the persistent challenges within South Sudan, requiring a dedicated regional mechanism. Prior to this meeting, the C5 has engaged in a series of diplomatic initiatives, including a Ministerial Visit to Juba in July 2026, a visit by the AU Peace and Security Council in April, and subsequent visits by the AU High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, Dr Jakaya Kikwete, and the AU Technical Assessment Team in August. These engagements demonstrate a sustained, albeit potentially reactive, approach to the situation. The statement does not address the underlying drivers of instability in South Sudan, nor the specific commitments made by various stakeholders. The meeting’s focus is explicitly on “taking stock of developments” and “assessing the situation,” suggesting a process of evaluation rather than a proactive intervention strategy.
Analysis
South Africa’s continued leadership through the C5 reflects a strategic calculation. The C5’s composition – including countries with diverse geopolitical interests – suggests a desire to maintain a broad coalition in support of a stable South Sudan. The timing of the meeting, closely preceding the December 22, 2026 elections, indicates a prioritization of managing the electoral process. The inclusion of the AU High Representative and the Technical Assessment Team highlights a recognition of the need for external expertise and a formalized evaluation of the political environment. The repeated references to “progress towards the implementation of commitments” suggest a degree of frustration with previous efforts, potentially reflecting a desire to avoid further escalation of the situation. The statement does not address the potential impact of the upcoming elections on regional security or the broader geopolitical implications of South Sudan’s political transition.
Implications
The convening of the C5 meeting carries implications for regional stability and South Sudan’s political trajectory. Should the meeting yield a renewed commitment to supporting the electoral process, it could provide a framework for international engagement. However, the meeting’s focus on “assessing the situation” suggests a cautious approach, potentially limiting the scope of any coordinated action. The continued engagement of the C5 could exert pressure on South Sudan’s transitional government to address key concerns, particularly regarding inclusivity and the conduct of the elections. The meeting’s outcome will likely influence the approach of other international partners, including the United States and the European Union, who have a vested interest in a peaceful and stable South Sudan. The statement does not address the potential role of regional trade and security agreements in supporting the transition.
Outlook
If the visit yields a commitment to continued support for the political transition, the next step for South Africa will be to coordinate with IGAD and other regional partners. Should the situation in South Sudan continue to deteriorate in the lead-up to the elections, the C5’s ability to effectively manage the crisis will be tested. The success of the C5’s efforts hinges on the willingness of all stakeholders – including the South Sudanese government, regional actors, and international partners – to engage in constructive dialogue and implement concrete measures to promote peace and stability.
