South Sudan’s new First Vice President Taban Deng Gai has presented an economic package program to the Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta during his official visit to Nairobi, a member of the government delegation said.

Taban Deng Gai, who replaced prominent opposition leader Riek Machar, was accompanied by senior officials mostly allied to President Salva Kiir.

 “As you know our people are facing difficult economic conditions with high food prices at market, Taban presented an economic package plan which will be followed-up by the formation of technical committees from both sides, South Sudan and Kenya to discuss the details” he said.

Speaking to reporters at Juba Airport upon arrival yesterday, Akol Paul Kordit, Deputy Minister of Information said the First Vice President discussed with the Kenyan leader a range of issues including matters pertaining to joint cooperation in an attempt to salvage the country’s ailing economy.

Lobby for regional support

 Akol further said the team also shared South Sudan government’s concerns about the UN Security Council resolution for the deployment of 4,000 regional troops in Juba.

“We have shared our concerns with the President of Kenya, because the resolution came as an overreaction from the Security Council, it is alarmingly disproportional, it does not correspond with the realty on the ground” he said.

The official pointed out that the Kenyan President who also serves as a rapporteur of the East African regional bloc IGAD confirmed his support to peace and stability in South Sudan. The deputy minister also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to engage in a constructive dialogue about peace implementation though regional bodies.

The government delegation led by Taban Deng includes cabinet minister, Martin Elia Lomoru, defense minister, Kuol Manyang, petroleum minister, Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth, gender and social welfare minister, Awut Deng Acuil, and top security officials.

File photo: Taban Deng shaking hands with Uhuru Kenyatta