Former United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on Tuesday commended the role Kenya is playing in promoting regional peace especially in Somalia and South Sudan.

Ban specifically thanked President Uhuru Kenyatta for his personal initiatives in the search for peace in South Sudan as well as the restoration of stability in Somalia, said a statement issued in Nairobi after the two leaders held talks in Nairobi.

"We are grateful for the role you and your country have continued to play in regional peace, particularly in South Sudan and Somalia. I encourage regional leaders to remain engaged in helping the two Horn of Africa countries," Ban said.

The former UN chief also appreciated Kenya's support for the United Nations, noting that it is the only developing country where a UN headquarters was located.

During the meeting, Kenyatta briefed the former South Korean diplomat on the situation in South Sudan and Somalia. The Kenyan leader called for concerted efforts to end the crisis in South Sudan.

Kenyatta also expressed optimism that Somalia will stabilize following the recent successful presidential elections.

Ban retired in late December, 2016 after concluding his two-term tenure at the helm of the global body.

source: Xinhua