By Bosco Bush
After three years of restrictions on movement of essential goods and services, South Sudan and Uganda have reopened Kaya-Oraba, Afoji-Kajo Keji border points, resuming unhindered trade.
The resolutions were reached following a meeting between Central Equatoria State [CES] Minister of Trade and Industry, Commissioner General for State Revenue Authority and their counterparts, the Uganda Revenue Authority [URA], and the Residence District Commissioner of Koboko District.
Essential food and non-food items such as cooking oil, sugar, rice, fuel and among others were restricted by the Ugandan authorities from entering South Sudan through the Oraba-Kaya border due to round-tripping and smuggling operations.
CES Minister of Trade and Industry, and head of a delegation, that met with Uganda authorities Tom Sebit briefed the CES governor on the outcomes.
He highlighted that the deal was struck on October 30, 2024, after passing measures to streamline the smooth flow of essential goods and services between the two countries.
“The road between Oraba and Kaya is very important because it connects with States, and since the Ugandan authorities have now allowed the movement of goods, we are also urging the South Sudan National Ministry of Roads and Bridges to improve the road on our side,” said Sebit.
He further stated that the agreed actions will be reviewed every 3 months to check on compliance by both parties to the agreement.
Moses Idoru, the CES Commissioner General for the Revenue Authority, expressed his gratitude for the deal reached. He encouraged traders who are importing or exporting goods across borders to engage closely with the State Ministry of Trade and Industry.
He stressed the need for rehabilitation of the Juba-Yei-Kaya highway in order to boost trade.
“We are so happy that the results of the negotiations came out fruitful for the people, not only Central Equatoria State but South Sudan as well,” adding that the State government appeals to the National Minister of Roads and Bridges to conduct road maintenance along the Juba-Kaya Road to boost trade.
The signing of the deal came following the promissory directive and commitment made by Governor Augustino Jadalla during the recent tour to Greater Yei and Wonduruba Administrative Payam.
Upon return from the tour, Jadalla dispersed the delegation to conduct meetings with Uganda’s counterparts hence the deal.