By Matik Kueth
President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Friday officially bid farewell to Mr. Guang Cong, the outgoing Deputy Special Representative (Political) of the UN Secretary-General for South Sudan and Deputy Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), ending a crucial chapter in the UN’s political engagement in the country.
Cong, who has spent the past year navigating one of the world’s most complex political landscapes, leaves behind a legacy marked by unwavering diplomatic engagement, behind-the-scenes negotiations, and strong collaboration with national and local actors.
His tenure came at a time when South Sudan was emerging from years of devastating conflict and working to transition into a more peaceful and democratic society through the implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.
Speaking to the media after the farewell meeting, Cong expressed profound appreciation to the government and people of South Sudan, noting their unwavering support to the United Nations during his service.
He reaffirmed the UN’s continued support to the people of South Sudan in their journey toward sustainable peace, stability, and prosperity.
Under Cong’s leadership, UNMISS amplified its efforts in political engagement, facilitated national dialogues, supported the permanent constitution-making process, and enhanced electoral preparations, all in a context frequently marred by fragile security, intercommunal violence, and political mistrust.
Notably, he played a quiet but instrumental role in encouraging dialogue among key political stakeholders and advocating for inclusive political processes, efforts that, while often unheralded, helped lay the groundwork for more resilient institutions.
His departure comes on the heels of his recent appointment by UN Secretary-General António Guterres as the UN Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa.
Based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Cong’s new role positions him at the heart of regional diplomacy in a corridor of Africa that remains as volatile as it is strategic.
With overlapping conflicts in Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Eritrea, the Horn of Africa faces unique challenges that require skilled diplomacy and deep political understanding, qualities Cong has shown during his time in South Sudan.