By Bosco Bush
Vice President and head of Economic Cluster, Dr. James Wani Igga reaffirmed South Sudan’s commitment to collaborate towards achieving the intended vision of the East African Community (EAC).
Dr. Igga was speaking at the launch of the 24th EAC Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) exhibition, currently underway in Juba. The regional trade fair aims at promoting unique innovation and skills development among EAC MSMEs.
It is also meant to promote trade, investment, and economic growth within the region by providing a platform for entrepreneurs, businesses, and stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and explore new market opportunities.
Dr. Igga said the trade fair exemplifies the significance of economic integration within the EAC member states.
“We in South Sudan strongly believe that the ongoing efforts are geared towards regional economic integration as a key strategy for sustainable growth, poverty reduction and long-term stability in our region,” said Igga.
He reaffirmed the country’s commitment to EAC as a regional economic group to advancing policies that facilitate free trade, investment and movement of goods and people across the borders.
“One singular objective is to support the realization of the vision of the community which is to create a prosperous, competitive and politically united East Africa,” VP Wani stated.
Founded in 1967, South Sudan became a full member of the East African Community on September 5, 2016.
On November 24, 2023, South Sudan President, Salva Kiir Mayardit officially took on the role of chair of the East African Community.
The EAC aims to achieve prosperity, competitiveness, security, stability and political unification in East Africa.
The partner countries – Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi – aim to create a political federation that would expand and reinforce economic, political, social and cultural integration.