(JUBA COUNTY) – The leadership of the Central Equatoria Business Union (CEBU) met with the Governor of Central Equatoria State, Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, in Juba on last Wednesday to present its draft five year strategic plan for 2025 to 2030.
The meeting, held on 4 September, was led by CEBU Chairperson Juma Khamis Juma and attended by senior members of the Union. They briefed Governor Mujung on the organisation’s activities and outlined a roadmap designed to strengthen the role of the private sector in supporting the State’s economy.
The draft strategic plan is built on seven core pillars: policy research, capacity building, information exchange, trade promotion, access to capital, access to markets and advocacy for local businesses. According to the Union, these pillars represent the key areas where collective action is required to help enterprises in Central Equatoria expand and compete effectively.
Governor Mujung welcomed the presentation, praising the Union for developing what he described as a forward looking plan. He noted that the proposals reflected the aspirations of many South Sudanese seeking to thrive in business. The Governor also called for closer collaboration between the State government and the private sector to unlock untapped business opportunities and to strengthen the socio-economic foundation of Central Equatoria.
Following the meeting, CEBU Patron Thomas Muto Lo’Buda addressed the media. He explained that the draft plan seeks to align the Union’s activities with the State government’s economic vision. He stressed that a stronger partnership between private business and government institutions would help address the economic challenges facing South Sudan.
“We are happy that His Excellency the Governor has endorsed our five year strategic plan as a draft document,” Muto said. “We also discussed fostering stronger links between State authorities and the private sector to empower and support each other.”
The Union believes that a clear strategy will provide businesses with the tools to grow and attract investment. The plan aims to strengthen Central Equatoria’s position as a hub for commerce in South Sudan by prioritising access to markets and financing, while at the same time promoting trade and innovation.
Below is a summary of the seven pillars outlined in the draft plan:
| Pillar | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Policy Research | Evidence based policies to guide business growth |
| Capacity Building | Training and skills development for entrepreneurs |
| Information Exchange | Sharing business knowledge and market data |
| Trade Promotion | Expanding local and regional trade links |
| Access to Capital | Improving financing options for businesses |
| Access to Markets | Enhancing opportunities for goods and services |
| Advocacy | Promoting the interests of local businesses |
The Union is expected to finalise the plan after further consultations with its members and relevant stakeholders. If adopted, it will provide a structured path for private sector participation in South Sudan’s economic development over the next five years.
