(PANRIENG COUNTY) – The Chief Administrator of the Ruweng Administrative Area, Stephano Wieu de Mialek, has pledged stronger government support for businesses after meeting with the Ruweng Chamber of Commerce and representatives of the Sudanese and Somali business community.
The meeting, held in Panrieng, focused on trade relations and the need for closer cooperation among traders from South Sudan, Sudan, and Somalia. It also addressed challenges facing local businesses, including taxation, security, and access to services.
Mr Wieu said that the government recognised the contribution of entrepreneurs in improving livelihoods and driving community development.
“The businessmen and women across Ruweng are making significant contributions to the lives of our people. The government is ready to resolve their concerns and promote their enterprises for the betterment of the entire area,” he said in a statement shared by his press office.
The discussions brought together senior government officials, including the Deputy Chief Administrator, Security and Economic Advisors, the Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agencies, the Minister of Finance and Planning, and the Director of Taxation. Representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and traders from across Ruweng counties also took part.
Business leaders welcomed the inclusive nature of the dialogue. The Chairperson of the Chamber of Commerce said the engagement reflected a commitment to unity and peaceful coexistence among traders of different backgrounds. “This meeting demonstrates our shared vision for economic growth and social harmony. We are grateful for the government’s openness and support,” the statement noted.
The Chief Administrator pledged that his administration would continue working with business stakeholders to create an environment conducive to trade. Key priorities will include improving taxation systems, strengthening service delivery, and enhancing security for traders and investors.
Ruweng Administrative Area is increasingly positioning itself as a hub for cross border and local commerce. Leaders emphasised that coordination between government institutions, business associations, and communities will remain central to sustainable economic development in the region.
Ruweng Business Engagement Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | Meeting between Chief Administrator of Ruweng Administrative Area and Chamber of Commerce |
| Date | Sunday, 21 September 2025 (as reported) |
| Location | Panrieng, Ruweng Administrative Area, South Sudan |
| Key Participant | Chief Administrator, Stephano Wieu de Mialek |
| Other Officials Present | Deputy Chief Administrator, Security and Economic Advisors, Minister of Local Government, Minister of Finance and Planning, Director of Taxation |
| Business Groups | Ruweng Chamber of Commerce, Sudanese traders, Somali traders, South Sudanese traders |
| Main Issues Discussed | Trade relations, business challenges, taxation, service delivery, security, community development |
| Key Government Pledge | Support businesses, improve business environment, strengthen taxation systems, ensure security for operations |
| Chamber of Commerce Response | Welcomed dialogue, stressed unity and peaceful coexistence among diverse traders |
| Economic Context | One US Dollar = 7,100 SSP (September 2025 market rate) |
| Overall Aim | Foster cooperation between government and private sector, promote inclusive commerce, position Ruweng as a trade hub |
South Sudan continues to face broad economic challenges, with high inflation and reliance on imports affecting the cost of doing business. At the current market rate, one United States dollar trades at around 7,100 South Sudanese Pounds (SSP), a level that impacts traders who import goods from Sudan and elsewhere. Business groups have frequently called for supportive policies to reduce barriers to trade and encourage investment.
According to a statement from the Area Press, the latest engagement between the Chief Administrator and the business community is viewed as an important step in building confidence and strengthening economic ties within Ruweng and across borders.