(NAIROBI) – A group of South Sudanese investors and professionals operating in Kenya met with H.E. Ambassador Anthony Kon at the Embassy of South Sudan in Nairobi on 22 July 2025. The high level engagement aimed to build stronger links between the Embassy and the South Sudanese business community in Kenya.
The delegation, which included entrepreneurs in fashion, logistics, legal services, media, real estate and general trade, took the opportunity to officially congratulate Ambassador Kon on his appointment. They also used the meeting to introduce their ventures and propose practical ways to work more closely with the Embassy to promote South Sudanese business interests in Kenya.
Ambassador Kon praised the investors for their creativity and resilience in running businesses in what he called Kenya’s highly competitive commercial environment. He reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to helping South Sudanese entrepreneurs navigate policy frameworks, build institutional partnerships, and obtain legal and regulatory guidance. He also encouraged them to comply with Kenyan laws, form mentorship networks for youth, and create a united business association to amplify their visibility and national profile.
The investors outlined a range of challenges they face in Kenya, such as the complexity of business registration, limited access to work permits and tax PINs, particularly for South Sudanese recognised as urban refugees, and the absence of structured mentorship and business networking.
They urged the Embassy to consider facilitating a South Sudan business workshop in Kenya, promoting local businesses through its communication platforms and helping create connections with the Kenya Chamber of Commerce. They also asked for advocacy from the Embassy to ensure smoother documentation processes and fairer inclusion in local trading opportunities.
Ambassador Kon described the discussion as part of an “economic liberation movement” and committed to using the Embassy as a platform for advancing South Sudanese entrepreneurial interests. He promised full backing in providing legal protection, improving access to institutions, and pushing for regional economic inclusion. He also encouraged the group to stay focused on growth and serve as proud representatives of South Sudan’s business spirit abroad.
This diplomatic engagement comes at a time when more South Sudanese citizens are engaging in cross-border trade and diaspora-led entrepreneurship, particularly in East African countries such as Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia.
The Embassy’s willingness to act as a channel for stronger representation is seen as vital in addressing long standing concerns among diaspora communities about documentation, legal access, and policy integration.
The meeting concluded with agreement on follow up actions, including the possible organisation of a formal South Sudan business forum in Nairobi to continue the conversation and develop action plans.