Salva Kiir struggles to walk in Ethiopia as Abiy Ahmed comes to his rescue

Support at Dam Inauguration

• 💡 During the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam inauguration on September 9, 2025, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed provided support to South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit.
• 🚶‍♂️ Salva Kiir, 74, was visibly weak and unable to walk on his own, requiring assistance to move around the event.
• 🤝 Prime Minister Ahmed held his hand and guided his steps, enabling President Kiir to participate like other attendees.

Limited Participation

• 🚧 Due to his condition, President Kiir was limited from touring various parts of the dam and its hydroelectric power station.
• 🌍 This contrasted with other African and Caribbean heads of state who freely toured many areas.

Health Status and Rumors

• ✅ As of September 2025, Salva Kiir is officially reported to be in good health with no confirmed illness diagnosis.
• 💬 Despite official reports, rumors of serious illness or death have circulated periodically on social media.
• 🚫 The South Sudanese government has repeatedly dismissed these rumors as false and malicious propaganda aimed at creating instability.
• ⚠️ However, President Kiir has previously exhibited signs of age-related cognitive or physical decline, including nosebleeds, speech breakdown, and public urination.