Juba County Caretaker Commissioner Kalisto Lado has clarified that his recent directives restricting foreign nationals from retail trade are not intended to expel foreigners from the country. Instead, they aim to reserve small-scale commerce for South Sudanese citizens while encouraging foreign investors to focus on the wholesale sector. Lado's remarks were meant to encourage foreign traders to focus on investment rather than retail trade.
The clarification follows comments Lado made on Monday, urging foreign traders to leave small-scale businesses to South Sudanese and focus on larger investments that can create jobs for citizens. In a statement, Lado said his remarks had been misinterpreted on social media as a call to expel foreign businesspeople from South Sudan. He emphasized that he has no mandate to evict foreigners from the country, describing the reports as false information.
Lado stated that South Sudan remains open to foreigners who enter the country legally and conduct businesses in accordance with the law. He stressed that the country's policy is welcoming to everyone from any country who wants to come to South Sudan, provided they are not criminals. Lado's comments aim to reassure foreigners that they are not being asked to leave the country.
Commissioner Lado explained that his remarks to foreign traders during an inspection of Kubri Haboba Market were intended to protect economic opportunities for South Sudanese. He encouraged foreigners to invest in larger businesses, industries, and companies that can create employment. Lado cited examples of small businesses that should be reserved for citizens, such as selling food items and motorcycle taxi services.
Lado emphasized that his directives are not about sending people away but about respecting and protecting the businesses of South Sudanese citizens. He encouraged foreigners to come with significant capital to establish companies, industries, or factories that will produce goods and employ citizens. This approach aims to boost economic growth and job creation.
Commissioner Lado has also dismissed social media claims that authorities are demolishing structures as part of the campaign. He clarified that the county administration is clearing garbage from roads, removing goods placed on roadways, and directing traders to operate from designated areas. Lado urged foreigners living in South Sudan to remain calm, saying they have nothing to fear as long as they obey the country's laws.
Lado called on residents to support the government's efforts to organize Juba, improve service delivery, and maintain peace and security ahead of the planned elections. The government's initiative aims to create a more business-friendly environment while ensuring that citizens benefit from economic opportunities. By clarifying his directives, Lado hopes to promote a better understanding of the government's policies and goals.
Key points
- The government of South Sudan is encouraging foreign investors to focus on the wholesale sector and larger businesses that can create jobs for citizens.
- Commissioner Lado emphasized that his directives are not intended to expel foreigners from the country but to reserve small-scale commerce for South Sudanese citizens.
- The government's campaign aims to organize Juba, improve service delivery, and maintain peace and security ahead of the planned elections.
