Santino Fardol Watod Dicken

Dr. Dicken is a distinguished diplomat and author best known for advocating for South Sudan's independence through self-determination (referendum).

Dr. Dicken's intellectual journey commenced at the esteemed University of Bucharest, Romania, where he sowed the seeds of his future accomplishments. In 2000, he earned a Bachelor's Degree in economics, a testament to his early enthusiasm for justice and prosperity, qualities that would later define his career and his advocacy for South Sudanese independence.

His academic pursuits continued with a Master's Degree in international business from the University of Worcester in the United Kingdom in 2009, followed by a PhD in political economy from SMC University in Zug, Switzerland, in 2020.

Dr. Dicken's commitment to South Sudanese independence transcends the professional realm; it is deeply personal. He has been a catalyst in rallying the South Sudanese community locally and globally, urging them to participate in the 2011 referendum, which was instrumental in the nation's journey towards independence.

His dedication to the cause was further showcased through his prolific writing, including the acclaimed book "Southern Sudan and Its Fight for Freedom" and his involvement as co-author in the “Diaspora Project for the Republic of South Sudan from 2011 and Beyond”. In the realm of diplomacy, Dicken's contributions have been invaluable.

After joining the diplomatic service in 2007 in Sudan, he became the first South Sudanese diplomat to establish the South Sudan Embassy in the Federal Republic of Germany in 2012, after South Sudan gained independence. He served there as Charge d’Affaires, a.i., and Deputy Head of Mission.

Dr. Dicken's diplomatic career has been a tapestry of significant achievements. From 2022 to 2023, he served as the Charge d’Affaires, a.i., in the Benelux countries and the European Union, representing South Sudan with distinction.

His subsequent tenure at the same Embassy as Deputy Head of Mission from 2023 to February 2024 further fortified his diplomatic prowess, setting the stage for his future role as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of South Sudan to the United States of America.

In this capacity as the Ambassador, he will continue his unwavering commitment to advancing South Sudan's interests on the global stage, ensuring its voice is heard and its future is saufgarded.