By Kei Emmanuel Duku
South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA), in partnership has inaugurated first roadside parking and customs checkpoint along Juba-Nimule Highway.
The facility, located at Nesitu Customs Point in Juba County, is designed to streamline clearance procedures and improve security, with capacity to accommodate over 200 trucks.
The Nesitu facility was officially handed over by the Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority to the Ministry of Transport, which will subsequently transfer it to the SSRA for operations.
Simon Akuei Deng, Commissioner General at the South Sudan Revenue Authority, stated that the new facility will serve as a crucial inspection point for all inbound cargo destined for Juba and other parts of the country.
He emphasized that its completion introduces an additional layer of security through extra inspection and control of goods, enabling importers and exporters to comply with security and trade regulations, thereby improving revenue generation for the country.
“A key benefit highlighted is its potential to curb the smuggling of sensitive goods, such as cigarettes, alcohol, and tobacco, which authorities have struggled to control,” Akuei noted.
Constructed by Premier Group Limited, the facility boasts a large parking yard with a capacity for 250 trucks and a full-perimeter fence for enhanced security.
Gracias Trading and Investment built the administrative offices and other social amenities within the Nesitu Customs Parking yard, while Great Ruha Drilling and Construction Company installed the water and solar systems.
Long-distance truck driver Hussein Masaka expressed his gratitude for the well-constructed facility, stating it will significantly protect the security of goods and services enroute to their final destination.
“If you park inside here, thieves cannot longer access this compound because of its perimeter wall fence; security is tight, and it’s a good initiative, a relief for us drivers,” said Masaka.
Meanwhile, Dr. Lam Akol, South Sudan’s National Minister of Transport, confirmed that the facility will be officially handed over to the SSRA in the coming days, marking the commencement of full-scale customs operations at the site.
Dr. Akol stated that the completion of the Nesitu Roadside Station represents a transformative milestone for the country, bringing several expected benefits, including enhanced road safety.
This is achieved by providing a secure and organized environment for truck drivers to rest, thereby reducing fatigue-related accidents.
“With verification, parking, and safety under one roof, the Nesitu Customs Point is anticipated to reduce road congestion, curb smuggling, and improve the experience for both truckers and customs officers,” Dr. Akol added.
Some of the services expected at the Nesitu roadside parking facility include verification of goods and services, parking, and inspection.
The new Nesitu roadside station is seen as a cornerstone in ensuring the safety of truck drivers and their property, as well as reducing road congestion and the smuggling of goods and services in and out of the country.
John Deng, Representative of the Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority, emphasized the regional importance of roadside stations like Nesitu.
The truck parking site in Nesitu marks a new chapter for transport and trade facilitation for South Sudan, offering not just improved logistics but a boost for national revenue collection and regional integration.