(Juba) – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of South Sudan held its fourth Council of Undersecretary meeting this week, focusing on enhancing institutional effectiveness and strengthening the country’s diplomatic work.
The session chaired by Undersecretary Ambassador Agnes Oswaha brought together Directors General and departmental Directors to review current programmes and policy priorities.
According to the Ministry, the gathering was part of ongoing efforts to improve coordination and align internal operations with South Sudan’s broader foreign policy goals.
Discussions included a review of the Ministry’s current programmes and strategic plans designed to improve service delivery and increase the country’s international engagement.
Ambassador Oswaha, who presided over the meeting, emphasised the importance of regular internal reviews to ensure that South Sudan’s diplomatic missions are well supported and aligned with the government’s foreign policy objectives. She also encouraged greater collaboration across departments to address both existing and emerging challenges in international cooperation.
The Council of Undersecretary meeting serves as one of the highest coordination platforms within the Ministry. It brings together senior leadership to assess progress, identify gaps, and propose new initiatives to strengthen South Sudan’s diplomatic presence globally.
During the session, departmental leaders presented updates on their respective areas, including bilateral relations, regional integration, consular affairs, and international cooperation. The meeting also addressed administrative matters related to staffing, training, and resource management—key issues affecting the Ministry’s ability to operate effectively both at home and in foreign missions.
The Ministry said the outcomes of the meeting will inform its medium-term planning and help shape future policy direction, particularly in areas such as regional diplomacy, trade and investment promotion, and multilateral engagement.
Officials reaffirmed the government’s commitment to pursuing a proactive foreign policy that supports peace, stability, and development in South Sudan and the wider region. They also acknowledged the role of institutional reforms in enhancing diplomatic capacity and service delivery.
The meeting concluded with a set of recommendations aimed at improving inter-departmental coordination and ensuring that the Ministry remains responsive to the country’s evolving foreign policy needs.
The Council is expected to convene again later this year to assess the implementation of key resolutions and monitor progress on ongoing reforms.
The Ministry continues to face capacity challenges, but officials remain optimistic that with better coordination and planning, South Sudan can strengthen its diplomatic influence and representation on the international stage.
