Juba, South Sudan
October 19, 2021—South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has sent his condolences, mourning the death of the first African-American Secretary of State, Gen. Collin Powell whom he describes as a “true friend of South Sudan”.
Powell died of Covid-19 and cancer complications at the age of 84 despite being fully vaccinated.
In a statement by Presidential Press Unit, President Salva Kiir says he is saddened to learn the demise of the man whom he believed to have had played a pivotal role in an effort to bring a just and honorable peace to the people of South Sudan through the CPA.
” I am saddened by the news of the passing of General Collin Powell. General Collin Powell was the main fulcrum of President George W. Bush’s push for a joint peace in the Sudan. It was through General Powell’s effort and determination that the Comprehensive Peace Agreement was signed between the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement and then government of Sudan “, President Kiir stated in a statement seen by Nyamilepedia.
Kiir conveyed his sincere condolences on behalf of the Republic of South Sudan to the United States President, Joseph R. Biden Jr., General Powell’s family and to all Americans who are grieving his death.
President Kiir stated that South Sudan has lost one of its genuine friends who stood firm for them during the CPA of 2005 adding that Gen. Powell shall also be remembered as a courageous man for protecting the lives of the innocent souls in Darfur.
“In General Powell’s death, South Sudan has lost one of its true friends. As well, America and the world have also lost a great man. He a was leader with incredible courage who America and the world with utmost dedication. In our region, he will be remembered for his effort towards the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement as well as his firm stance on the protection of civilians during the Darfur conflict “, Kiir added in the statement added.
Gen. Collin Paul was born on April 5, 1937 and died on Monday, October 18, 2021. Collin was an American statesman, diplomat, and four-star general who served as the 65th United States secretary of state from 2001 to 2005. He was the first African-American secretary of state  and served as the 16th United States national security advisor from 1987 to 1989 and as the 12th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1989 to 1993.
