South Sudan's Foreign Affairs Ministry has issued a statement clarifying the status of foreign traders in the country. The ministry said on Thursday that there is no government directive requiring foreign nationals to leave South Sudan. This statement comes after recent remarks by Juba County Caretaker Commissioner Kalisto Ladu Nyigilo, who called for foreign nationals to be barred from operating small-scale businesses in the capital.
Commissioner Ladu had suggested that foreign nationals should focus on wholesale trade, factories, and larger investments, rather than small-scale retail businesses. He cited examples of businesses that should be reserved for South Sudanese, including the sale of chapati, onions, and tomatoes, as well as motorcycle taxi services. His remarks were widely circulated on social media, leading to concerns among foreign traders.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry took note of the public statements concerning the participation of foreign nationals in small-scale commercial activities in Juba. The ministry emphasized that commercial activities are governed by national laws and regulations, and any restrictions must be handled by the relevant authorities in accordance with the law. This suggests that the government is committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting legitimate foreign investment.
Commissioner Ladu denied issuing an order for foreign nationals to leave Juba or South Sudan within seven days, saying he did not have the authority to expel foreign nationals from the country. However, his remarks have caused concern among foreign traders, including Ugandans, Kenyans, and other East Africans, who operate small businesses in Juba. Uganda has also sought talks with South Sudan over restrictions affecting foreign-owned retail businesses.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, legitimate foreign investment, and constructive relations with foreign nationals and their respective countries. The ministry's statement appears to be aimed at reassuring foreign traders and investors that their activities are protected by law. However, the controversy highlights the challenges faced by foreign nationals operating businesses in South Sudan.
Commissioner Ladu was appointed caretaker commissioner last week, and has said that his position is aimed at protecting economic opportunities for South Sudanese. His remarks have sparked a debate about the role of foreign nationals in South Sudan's economy, and the need to balance the interests of local businesses with the need to attract foreign investment.
The controversy over foreign traders in Juba highlights the complexities of South Sudan's economy, which is heavily dependent on imports and foreign investment. The government's commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting legitimate foreign investment will be closely watched by foreign traders and investors.
Key points
- The South Sudan Foreign Ministry has clarified that there is no directive for foreign nationals to leave the country.
- Juba County Caretaker Commissioner Kalisto Ladu Nyigilo had called for foreign nationals to be barred from operating small-scale businesses in the capital.
- The controversy highlights the challenges faced by foreign nationals operating businesses in South Sudan.
