Uganda's Minister of East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, has appealed to South Sudan to reconsider restrictions affecting Ugandan traders. Kadaga stated that South Sudan should respect the common market protocol of the East African Community. She emphasized the need for transparent and fair treatment of Ugandan businesses. Kadaga's comments come after Juba County authorities instructed foreign traders to focus on wholesale trade and larger investments.
The restrictions were announced by Kalisto Lado, the caretaker Commissioner of Juba County. Lado instructed foreign traders at Kubri Haboba Market in Juba to leave small-scale businesses to South Sudanese. He specified that businesses such as selling charcoal, onions, and tomatoes, as well as motorbike services, should be reserved for locals. Lado's remarks were reported by regional media, including Ugandan and Kenyan outlets.
Kadaga stressed that any measures affecting Ugandan traders and businesses should be implemented fairly and without discrimination. She emphasized the importance of respecting bilateral agreements and the principles of the East African Community. The minister also called on South Sudan to address the concerns of affected Ugandans through established legal and diplomatic channels.
Lado has since clarified his remarks, stating that a commissioner does not have the mandate to expel foreigners from South Sudan. However, his initial comments sparked concerns among Ugandan traders and businesses operating in South Sudan. The Ugandan government has expressed its commitment to engaging with South Sudan to resolve the issue.
The East African Community common market protocol aims to promote economic integration and cooperation among member states. The protocol allows for the free movement of goods, services, and people across borders. Uganda's appeal to South Sudan is seen as an effort to uphold the principles of the protocol and protect the interests of Ugandan traders and businesses.
South Sudan has not yet responded to Uganda's appeal. The issue remains a concern for Ugandan traders and businesses operating in South Sudan. The two countries have a significant trade relationship, with Uganda being one of South Sudan's main trading partners.
The situation highlights the challenges of balancing national interests with regional economic integration. Uganda's appeal to South Sudan is seen as a test of the East African Community's commitment to its common market protocol. The outcome will likely have implications for trade relations between Uganda and South Sudan, as well as the broader regional economy.
Key points
- Uganda's Minister of East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, has appealed to South Sudan to reconsider restrictions on Ugandan traders.
- The restrictions were announced by Kalisto Lado, the caretaker Commissioner of Juba County.
- Uganda's appeal to South Sudan is seen as an effort to uphold the principles of the East African Community's common market protocol.
