Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel

𝟏𝟐 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel today held a meeting with H.E. Jamal Hassan Khalif, the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Somalia to South Sudan. Their discussions focused on deepening bilateral and economic relations between the two nations. The leaders explored stronger partnerships in trade and investment, infrastructure connectivity, and private sector collaboration. To this end, they agreed on the development of a formal trade framework that will ensure mutual benefit in all areas of cooperation, strengthen institutional ties, and create the confidence needed for long-term investment. The Vice President commended Amb. Khalif’s commitment and encouraged him to inspire Somali investors to go beyond trading to building in South Sudan, employing South Sudanese, and developing local capacity. The Government of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit welcomes investors from all friendly nations to participate in building this land of opportunity - all in an effort to create a resilient, diversified, and inclusive economy for our people.

The Office joins Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel and the entire nation in mourning the passing of Dr. Bona Malwal Madut Ring - a towering figure whose voice, intellect, and patriotism helped shape the conscience of South Sudan. For decades, Dr. Bona Malwal stood as one of South Sudan’s most distinguished journalists and thought leaders - delivering news, commentary, and insight that awakened a deep sense of pride and love for our homeland. The Vice President has paid tribute to him as a noble man and consummate professional - one who, even amid the most intense debates, never allowed himself or his audience to lose focus on what brought us together, nor on our shared dream of one people and one nation. He also believed in the power of dialogue, always extending a hand and words of calm wisdom whenever called upon. To his family, colleagues, the people of Twic Mayardit Community, and all citizens of South Sudan, the Vice President conveys his deepest condolences and prayers. “May we all find comfort in knowing that Hon. Dr. Bona Malwal rests in eternal peace - his legacy forever etched in the history of this nation as one of its greatest statesmen,” he remarked.

𝟐𝟗 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 Earlier today, Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel held a meeting with Amb. Endre Stiansen, the Norwegian Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa. He was accompanied by Chargé d’Affaires Inger Meyer and other senior officials from the Royal Norwegian Embassy. The discussions focused on key national and regional priorities, including the ongoing conflict in Sudan, the status of Abyei, and the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Amb. Stiansen commended South Sudan’s steady progress in peace implementation and assured the meeting of Norway’s support. He also lauded South Sudan as a key advocate for regional stability, highlighting the country’s continued efforts to promote dialogue across borders. The Vice President expressed deep gratitude to the Government and people of Norway for their enduring friendship and partnership in our country’s transformation journey under H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit.

𝟐𝟐 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel today met with Ms. Anita Kiki Gbeho, the Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), who also serves as the United Nations Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in the country. Their discussions centered on strengthening coordination between the Government and the United Nations to sustain peace efforts across the nation. The leaders also explored ways to safeguard humanitarian personnel and ensure that relief reaches all communities in need. VP Dr. Bol Mel commended the enduring partnership with UNMISS and assured the meeting that firm action will be taken against any individuals obstructing humanitarian access. Free flow of aid is essential for saving lives and rebuilding livelihoods, he remarked. Under the leadership of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit, the Government will continue working with all peace-loving partners and stakeholders to advance unity and social development.

𝟐𝟏 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 Vice President Dr Benjamin Bol Mel was briefed on the security situation in Lakes State in a meeting earlier today with Lakes State Governor Hon. Rin Tueny Mabor. The discussions also explored ways of reinforcing coordination between national and state institutions to foster reconciliation, sustain harmony, and strengthen law and order among the great people of Lakes State. The Vice President urged the Governor to intensify efforts toward maintaining peace and stability across the State. He also called on all governors and state administrations to play their critical role as the first line of defence in conflict prevention. Additionally, VP Dr. Bol Mel reiterated H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s national agenda for peace - one that begins in the States and extends to the entire nation. Such peace, he noted, is the foundation upon which the government can deliver development and a better future for all South Sudanese.

𝟐𝟎 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel today presided over the inauguration of the Horizon Business Centre on behalf of H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and Organized Forces of the Republic of South Sudan. The event was graced by several distinguished leaders - including Gen. Kuol Manyang Juuk, Senior Presidential Advisor; Gen. Chol Thon Balok, Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs; Gen. Dr. Paul Nang Majok, Chief of Defence Forces; Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Rabbi Mujung, Governor of Central Equatoria State; Lt. Gen. Bona Panek Biar Chol, Managing Director of the SSPDF Pension Fund; and Isaiah Kuot Kuol Malith, Managing Director of Horizon Bank. The Vice President congratulated H.E President Salva Kiir Mayardit and the leadership of the defence fraternity for the historic accomplishment that will drive business growth, create jobs, and strengthen the country’s economy. VP Dr. Bol Mel also called on ministers and heads of government institutions to look beyond the limits of budgetary allocations and develop similar income-generating projects. This is how South Sudan will rise into a nation of abundance, productivity, and prosperity for all South Sudanese.

𝟏𝟔 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 The Government of South Sudan is taking concrete steps to restore lasting peace and stability in Upper Nile State - particularly in Nasir and Ulang Counties - where people deserve to live and work without fear or disruption. Earlier today, Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel met with Hon. Jacob Dollar Ruot, Governor of Upper Nile State, to discuss coordinated efforts to that end, and to spur sustainable development throughout the State.” The Vice President emphasized that peace is the bedrock of progress - for without peace, there can be no infrastructure, essential services, or sustainable economic growth. As the Government under H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit continues to champion peace and national transformation, the people of Upper Nile State are encouraged to embrace and share in its dividends: secure communities, improved livelihoods, and opportunities for prosperity that come with a united and secure nation.

𝟖 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel today received H.E. Paul Mashatile, Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, who is in Juba for a two-day working visit to engage key signatories to the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Dr. Bol Mel was accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Monday Semaya Kumba; the Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro; and South Sudan’s Ambassador to South Africa, Amb. Simon Duku Michael. The Vice President welcomed his counterpart’s visit as a clear demonstration of South Africa’s continued commitment to supporting lasting peace in South Sudan. As South Africa's Special Envoy to South Sudan, H.E. Paul Mashatile is also expected to meet H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit for further discussions on consolidating peace efforts and strengthening regional cooperation - a significant step forward in our country’s journey toward enduring stability and progress for its people.

𝟏 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 The Government of South Sudan is preparing to embark on a nationwide ICT infrastructure development program - an investment that will lay the foundation for a more connected, modern, and competitive South Sudan. This follows a meeting between Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel and Hon. Michael Makuei Lueth, the Minister of Information, Communication Technology & Postal Services, yesterday. The Minister also briefed the Vice President on the Ministry’s achievements, ongoing progress, and the critical challenges that must be addressed to unlock South Sudan’s full digital potential. For H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit, ICT has always been a cornerstone of his vision for national transformation. He is committed to enabling the people of South Sudan to learn, earn, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly changing digital world.

𝟐𝟗 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel today received a briefing from the National Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon. Atong Kuol Manyang, on the ministry’s progress, achievements, and the challenges that must be addressed to strengthen South Sudan’s economy. Key on the agenda was South Sudan’s path toward joining the World Trade Organization. Membership will grant South Sudan access to global markets, ensure our goods compete fairly, and boost investor confidence. The meeting also reviewed plans to establish the South Sudan Industrial Development Bank - envisioned as a strong financial backbone to attract and sustain both national and foreign investment, support local businesses, and drive industrial growth that creates jobs for our people. The Government of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit continues to streamline the trade and industry sectors to operate efficiently, with the people at the center of every policy.

𝟐𝟒 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 On the second day of the High-Level JOCs Partners Conference hosted by the Ministry of Petroleum and NILEPET, Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel once again sat down with senior representatives of the China National Petroleum Corporation to continue strategic discussions. He was joined by the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, Eng. Deng Lual Wol, and the Managing Director of NILEPET, Eng. Ayuel Ngor Kacgor. The focus remained clear: the people of South Sudan. The Vice President underscored the urgent need for investors to expand oil production. This would not be for their returns alone, but to transform our country’s natural wealth into jobs, infrastructure, and opportunities that directly uplift South Sudanese families. Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel called upon all oil partners to take part in this national mission and deliver maximum value for our people as per the vision of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit.

Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel Bol Mel today convened a high-level meeting with international and national oil partners to drive a new era of growth for South Sudan’s petroleum sector. In attendance were the Undersecretary in the Ministry of Petroleum, Eng. Deng Lual Wol, the Managing Director of NILEPET, Eng. Ayuel Ngor Kacgor, alongside senior representatives from CNPC, SINOPEC, and SSTO. The central agenda focused on boosting investments in the sector, expanding production, and upgrading vital oil pipeline infrastructure to ensure efficiency. The Vice President emphasized that all oil operations must deliver maximum benefits to the people of South Sudan. He also called on the industry to prioritize creating employment for citizens - while building the next generation of skilled professionals through training and knowledge transfer. By aligning with partners to unlock new opportunities, the Government of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit is ensuring that oil wealth becomes a source of jobs, progress, and national pride for every citizen.

𝟏𝟖 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 The new chapter of leadership is taking shape in Western Bahr El Ghazal State as newly-appointed Governor Sharif Daniel Sharif met with Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel yesterday to present his vision for strengthening peace, revitalizing institutions, and ensuring that the promise of government is felt in every household in the state. Additionally, Governor Sharif outlined inclusive governance as one of his immediate priorities, urging community leaders and civil society to work with him to channel citizens’ voices and feedback, and to bridge the gap between local government and the people. The Vice President encouraged the Governor to lead with diligence, responsibility, and service above self. He then charged him to be proactive and reminded him that true leadership is measured not by words but by tangible transformation in the lives of the people. The Vice President also called upon all Governors across the country to champion the fulfilment of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s vision of ensuring that essential services reach the last mile - leaving no one behind.

𝟏𝟕 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 In a meeting held today, Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel had a fruitful discussion with Ms. Anita Kiki Gbeho, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident, and Humanitarian Coordinator of UNMISS. The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between the Government of South Sudan and the United Nations in tackling humanitarian challenges and advancing peace efforts. Both leaders noted the gravity of the multifaceted humanitarian crisis – from climate change impacts and natural disasters to the strain on resources caused by the spillover of the conflict in Sudan, which has displaced millions into South Sudan. The duo also reviewed ongoing UN interventions and how the Government can make them more effective and impactful. The Vice President assured that the Government of South Sudan will act on the UN’s request to guarantee safe and unhindered access for humanitarian workers so that lifesaving assistance can reach every community in need. The Government of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit will work hand in hand with UNMISS and all partners who share our vision of peace, stability, and prosperity.

𝟏𝟔 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel today received a detailed briefing from the Chief Administrator of the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, Gola Boyoi Gola, on the prevailing security situation and the region’s infrastructure priorities. The Vice President urged the Chief Administrator to intensify peacebuilding initiatives, emphasizing that lasting peace is the bedrock upon which sustainable infrastructure and development are built. He further emphasized that without peace, the nation’s aspirations for economic growth cannot be fully realized. Additionally, the Vice President echoed the vision of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit, calling for the national government to work hand in hand with local administrations in service to the people of South Sudan. Only through this collective effort will development extend beyond major towns and truly reach every community and household across South Sudan.

Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel today graced the ceremony marking the assumption of office by Honourable Advocate Sarah Peter Nyot Kok as the new Counsel General in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, following her appointment by H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit. Hon. Advocate Sarah Peter Nyot Kok, an accomplished lawyer with vast international experience, pledged to serve with diligence and integrity. She outlined her commitment to strengthening the rule of law, upholding constitutional order and ensuring access to justice for all citizens. Welcoming the Hon. Counsel General, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Dr. Joseph Geng Aketch, underscored that the Ministry will rely on her expertise to fulfil its critical mandate of promoting accountability, justice, reconciliation, and national unity. In his address, the Vice President, as Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, urged the Ministry to enforce strict adherence to the legal framework in all government financial transactions - ensuring transparency, preventing liabilities, and protecting the nation’s resources. For the people, the Hon. Counsel General’s appointment represents a renewed guarantee that the law will be a shield of fairness, a guide for governance, and a foundation for national prosperity.