By Deng Ghai Deng
The governments of South Sudan and Kenya have agreed to collaborate on the construction of the vital 11-kilometer road linking Nadapal in South Sudan to Nakodok in Kenya.
This landmark decision comes following a meeting between South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and Kenya’s President William Ruto, which took place in Juba earlier this week.
In a joint communique issued on Wednesday, the two leaders emphasized the importance of the road, describing it as crucial for enhancing trade and facilitating the free movement of people between the two nations.
The development of the road is expected to bolster both countries’ economies by improving regional trade routes and easing transportation logistics.
“The road will not only benefit our economies but also strengthen the ties between the two countries,” the communique reads.
The two leaders noted that Kenya has secured World Bank financing for the project, which is set to expire on November 8, 2024.
In order to ensure the project proceeds smoothly, they directed the Ministers responsible for Roads in both countries to immediately engage with the World Bank’s regional office in Nairobi and formulate a strategy to move forward.
The construction of the Nadapal-Nakodok road is seen as a critical step towards deepening economic integration between East African nations, facilitating trade, and improving infrastructure connectivity in the region.