The Ugandan government has formally called on authorities in South Sudan to safeguard the interests of foreign enterprises and resolve any regulatory disputes through established bilateral and regional mechanisms.
The appeal follows rising tensions and widespread panic among Ugandan traders in South Sudan’s capital, Juba. Local media reports recently indicated that South Sudanese authorities ordered foreign nationals to halt engagement in petty trade, directing that such commercial activities be restricted exclusively to South Sudanese citizens.
Rebecca Kadaga, Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community (EAC) Affairs, addressed the situation in an official statement, emphasizing that Kampala views these developments with grave concern.
Highlighting the vital role played by cross-border entrepreneurs, Kadaga stressed that Ugandan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in South Sudan are integral to employment generation, commerce, tax revenue, and broader regional economic integration.
“Their lawful investments should be protected, and any regulatory concerns should be exercised consistently without discrimination in a manner that respects applicable domestic laws, bilateral commitments and the broader principles of the EAC,” Kadaga stated.
As a member state of the East African Community, South Sudan is bound by regional integration treaties that guarantee the freedom of movement, establishment, and services for citizens of partner states. Kampala’s intervention underscores the expectation that member nations adhere to these foundational protocols rather than implementing unilateral restrictions that disrupt regional commerce.
To address the brewing crisis effectively, the Ugandan government has urged affected traders to formally report any business closures, restrictions, or harassment to relevant Ugandan diplomatic missions or competent authorities.
Kadaga noted that gathering verified information is essential to enabling constructive diplomatic engagement with Juba. By channeling complaints through official diplomatic channels, Kampala aims to verify the scope of the restrictions and negotiate solutions that protect the livelihoods of its citizens while respecting South Sudanese sovereignty.
Despite the mounting trade friction, Uganda reiterated its steadfast commitment to peaceful coexistence, lawful cross-border trade, and mutual respect among all EAC partner states.
