(JUBA) – South Sudan has been selected to host the 20th Regional Nile Conference and Nile Day celebrations in Juba this year, following deliberations by the government’s Economic Cluster chaired by Vice President Prof James Wani Igga.
The decision was reached during an Economic Cluster meeting held in Juba, where ministers reviewed key policy issues linked to infrastructure development, agriculture and macroeconomic management. The meeting brought together senior officials responsible for sectors that directly affect growth and regional cooperation.
During the session, the Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, James Mawich, presented resolutions related to infrastructure development within the water sector. The meeting also discussed South Sudan’s outstanding contribution to the Nile Basin Initiative for the 2025 to 2026 period, which remains due. Officials noted that meeting regional obligations is important for continued cooperation within the Nile Basin framework.
The selection of Juba to host the regional Nile event is expected to raise South Sudan’s profile in regional water and development discussions. The conference and celebrations typically bring together member states, development partners and technical experts to discuss shared water management, cooperation and development priorities.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Hussein Abdulbagi Akol, requested the release of funds to support the organisation of an agricultural conference and preparations for the upcoming agricultural season. He said timely financing is critical to planning and coordination, particularly as agriculture remains a key pillar of livelihoods and food supply in South Sudan.
The meeting also reviewed proposals from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning on a macroeconomic stabilisation project. The plan aims to reduce costs, improve revenue collection and strengthen the national economy. Officials said improved fiscal management is essential to support public services and infrastructure investment.
Participants agreed that coordination across ministries will be important as South Sudan prepares to host the Nile conference while advancing domestic economic priorities. The event is expected to place additional demands on logistics and planning but also offers opportunities for engagement with regional partners.
Key issues discussed at the Economic Cluster meeting included:
| Area | Focus |
|---|---|
| Water and infrastructure | Development plans and regional obligations |
| Nile Basin Initiative | Outstanding contribution for 2025 to 2026 |
| Agriculture | Funding for conference and seasonal preparation |
| Macroeconomic policy | Cost reduction and revenue mobilisation |
Hosting the 20th Regional Nile Conference in Juba is expected to reinforce South Sudan’s commitment to regional cooperation while aligning with broader efforts to strengthen economic management and sector coordination.