The Peace and Security Council of the African Union has made an impassioned plea asking every single South Sudanese to agree to peace and dialogue, so that the country can start “the road to recovery, a reconciled country and to a prosperous South Sudan.”

That’s the key message a team from the AU Peace and Security Council made at the conclusion of a three day visit in South Sudan.

The team led by the Chairperson of the African Union Peace and Security Council, Catherine Muigai Mwangi, arrived in Juba to assess the progress made thus far in regard to the implementation of the Peace Agreement.

The team was also here to assess the economic situation, as well as issues related to peace and reconciliation efforts throughout the country.

Addressing a news conference at the conclusion of the three day visit, the AU Peace and Security Council chairperson, said the team has gained a better understanding of the challenges facing the country and in particular the implementation of the Peace Agreement.

“As we leave Juba today, we have a better understanding of what the challenges facing this country are, especially the implementation of the Peace Agreement,” said Muigai.

She said that the council remains committed to support the implementation of the agreement.

“We have recommitted and re-assured the leadership and the people of South Sudan that the Peace and Security Council and the entire AU will remain engaged and will continue to support South Sudan as you implement this Peace agreement.”

The team met with the President, the first Vice President, leaders of other political parties, diplomats, religious and opposition leaders, women groups and civil society organizations.

The team also visited the PoC site in Malakal, holding fruitful talks with the IDP’s currently inhabiting the site.