South Sudan has been appointed Vice-Chair of the International Solar Alliance's Regional Committee for Africa. The appointments were announced during the Alliance's Seventh Assembly held in New Delhi, India, in November 2024. This development gives South Sudan a role in regional discussions on solar energy development and cooperation among African member states.
A delegation from South Sudan, led by the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Dams, Madhieu Achuil Mawien, attended the Ninth Session of the ISA Assembly in New Delhi from November 2 to 5, 2026. The delegation included Mathiang Matur Mathiang, the country's National Focal Point for the Alliance, and Ambassador Sitona Abdalla, who attended the opening ceremony.
During the Assembly, South Sudan highlighted its electricity challenges, reporting approximately 20 megawatts of solar generation capacity and electricity access of around five per cent. The country called for technical and institutional support from the Alliance to expand solar energy projects and improve access to affordable and reliable electricity.
The participation comes as South Sudan seeks international partnerships and investment to strengthen its renewable energy sector and expand electricity access across the country. The Ninth Assembly also discussed the proposed US$200 million Africa Solar Facility, which seeks to mobilise financing and accelerate solar energy investments across the continent.
The discussions focused on improving access to finance, attracting private-sector investment and addressing financial barriers affecting renewable energy projects. For South Sudan, such initiatives could provide opportunities to attract investment in solar power generation, rural electrification, solar-powered irrigation, healthcare facilities, schools and other essential public services.
The International Solar Alliance is an intergovernmental organisation established to promote cooperation among countries in advancing solar energy deployment through investment mobilisation, technology transfer, capacity building and international partnerships. South Sudan's reported elevation to the African Vice-President position could provide an additional platform for the country to contribute to regional discussions on renewable energy priorities.
However, the final ISA appointment resolution confirming the precise designation and term of office remains necessary to independently establish the reported leadership change. The country's new role may strengthen cooperation with other African member states and enable South Sudan to contribute to regional discussions on renewable energy priorities.
Key points
- South Sudan appointed Vice-Chair of International Solar Alliance's Regional Committee for Africa
- The country seeks international partnerships and investment to strengthen its renewable energy sector
- The proposed US$200 million Africa Solar Facility aims to mobilise financing and accelerate solar energy investments across the continent
