By Philip Buda Ladu
First ever National Trade Forum commenced on Thursday at Radisson BLU Hotel in Juba, with the National Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Manyang, officiating the opening ceremony.
Atong represented His Excellency Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, the Vice President of the Republic and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster.
The forum, themed “Understanding Private Sector Challenges and Solutions on Matters that Affect the Business Environment for Sustainable Consultation,” brought together a diverse group of high-ranking government officials and stakeholders.
Among those in attendance were Dr. Joseph Geng Akec, National Minister for Youth and Sports; Onyoti Adigo, National Minister for Livestock and Fisheries; Mangar Buong Alunge, Deputy Minister for Interior.
Others are: Simon Akuei Deng, Commissioner General for the National Revenue Authority; and several Undersecretaries and advisors from various ministries and institutions, including the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards.
In her opening remarks, Minister Atong Kuol Manyang expressed her appreciation to the participants and officially declared the forum open on behalf of the Vice President, emphasizing the critical role of trade in the national economy.
“Trade is the backbone of the economy, and the private sector is the strength of the economy.” she stated.
The Minister further highlighted the forum’s objective, explaining that it aims to “brainstorm solutions to issues facing business and trade.”
She stressed the necessity of a strong collaborative relationship between the public and private sectors to foster a thriving business environment.
Kawaja Kau Madol, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, lauded Minister Atong’s “visionary leadership.”
He underscored the government’s essential role in creating a stable and predictable environment, promoting competition, and providing crucial infrastructure and services to enable the private sector’s growth.
He also noted the various direct support mechanisms employed by the government, including financial incentives, regulatory reforms, and strategic partnerships.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry, as the leading advisory agency for both the government and the private sector, is responsible for formulating policies aimed at promoting the growth and development of both domestic and international trade.
This forum marks a significant step towards fostering dialogue and collaboration to address the challenges and unlock the potential of South Sudan’s private sector.