(Juba) – President Salva Kiir Mayardit returned to Juba on Wednesday, 2 July 2025, following a week long official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) aimed at boosting South Sudan’s economic ties and attracting foreign investment into the country.
The President was received at Juba International Airport by the Vice President for the Economic Cluster, Dr Benjamin Bol Mel, alongside several cabinet ministers and senior government officials.
Kiir had departed Juba on 22 June 2025 on a diplomatic mission to strengthen bilateral relations and promote investment opportunities in South Sudan. During his stay in the UAE, he was scheduled to meet high level Emirati officials and business leaders to present South Sudan as an emerging destination for investment, especially in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, mining, infrastructure, and telecommunications.
According to Press Secretary Ambassador David Amuor Majur, the President’s agenda included strategic meetings with investment groups and authorities in the UAE, where he shared recent government efforts to improve the business environment through reforms and increased transparency. The visit also aimed to promote regional peace and reinforce South Sudan’s commitment to long-term economic cooperation in the Gulf region.
While the Presidency has not yet released detailed outcomes of the meetings, the press unit noted that the visit is part of a broader diplomatic strategy to increase international engagement, diversify the economy, and accelerate post conflict reconstruction. This strategy is seen as vital in addressing the country’s financial difficulties and overdependence on oil revenue.
South Sudan continues to face significant economic challenges, including rising inflation and currency devaluation. As of June 2025, the South Sudanese Pound trades at approximately SSP 4,650 to the US dollar on official markets and up to SSP 7,000 on the parallel market. Any foreign investment resulting from the President’s trip could help stabilise the economy and support job creation.
The UAE, which has positioned itself as a leading investor in Africa, has shown growing interest in East African development projects. South Sudanese officials hope the recent trip could pave the way for long term partnerships in areas such as renewable energy, infrastructure, and financial services.
The arrival of President Kiir in the Middle East was met with public attention, not only for the diplomatic results but also for the internal political dynamics at home.
The Vice President for Economic Cluster, Dr Bol Mel, remained in charge during the President’s absence.
More information on the specific agreements or discussions held during the UAE visit is expected to be released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the coming days.
