Juba — President Salva Kiir Mayardit officially swore in a new cohort of ambassadors on Wednesday, urging them to uphold a strong sense of commitment and professionalism as they embark on their diplomatic missions.

During the ceremony, President Kiir commended the ambassadors for their patience and resilience, which he noted were instrumental in reaching this significant milestone in their careers. “You are now entrusted with the responsibility of representing our nation on the global stage,” he stated. “Your duties require unwavering dedication and a commitment to professionalism.”

In his address, the President underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to tackle the economic challenges currently facing South Sudan, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy in achieving national progress. “We are determined to address the economic hardships our nation is experiencing. Your roles will be crucial in fostering international partnerships that can lead to support and investment,” he explained.

Kiir also reassured the ambassadors of his administration’s readiness to collaborate with relevant authorities to identify and implement effective solutions for the challenges facing the country’s foreign missions. “Together, we can navigate the complexities of international relations and bring about positive change for our people,” he said.

Recognizing the financial struggles faced by many within the country, the President directed the Ministry of Finance and Planning to urgently explore all possible avenues to resolve the backlog of salary arrears for government employees. “It is imperative that we address these issues promptly to ensure the wellbeing of our workforce and the effectiveness of our diplomatic engagements,” he added.

The swearing-in ceremony marks a critical step for South Sudan’s diplomatic efforts as the new ambassadors are tasked with promoting the nation’s interests abroad while also addressing the pressing operational challenges tied to their roles. As they embark on this journey, the expectations for enhanced professionalism and a renewed commitment to the country’s goals loom large.