Resolving the conflict in South Sudan would not only be good for the country, but also for Africa and the rest of the global community, a visiting diplomat said in the Unity State capital Bentiu today.

Albert Francis Yankey, the Ghanaian Ambassador to Ethiopia who is also accredited to South Sudan, said the country was finally on the path to putting an end to the two-year crisis.

“We hope the leaders of the two main factions will implement the peace agreement that has been signed,” he said.

He explained that he was on a two-pronged visit to follow up on relations between Ghana and South Sudan, as well as to visit his country’s troops serving under UNMISS in Bentiu.

Mr. Yankey, who said he had observed different management aspects in the protection of civilians site like security as well as relief and food distribution, described the work of the Ghana armed forces and Formed Police Unit in Bentiu as “incredible”.

In a meeting with acting state governor Simon Chuol Biel, the Ambassador said South Sudan had great potential, but stressed that peace and security were required if the two countries were to achieve meaningful cooperation.

“You have made progress by signing the peace agreement and I hope you will take strong steps to implement it,” said Mr. Yankey. “The South Sudanese are our brothers and sisters and we are very anxious that the steps you have taken bear fruit.”

Mr. Biel said for peace to be implemented, it was necessary to have collaborative efforts and responsibilities from the grassroots level.

The acting governor, who is also Cabinet Affairs Minister, commended the role of UNMISS in protecting civilians.

“UNMISS did a lot for us,” he said. “Without (the peacekeeping mission), many lives would have been lost.”