(JUBA) – South Sudan’s Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism has launched a new hotel classification system aimed at improving hospitality management and aligning the country’s standards with those of the East African Community (EAC). The system uses a one to five star rating for hotels, lodges, and other accommodation facilities across the country.
Minister Denay Jock Chagor said the initiative is intended to raise service quality and protect residents and visitors from unsafe hospitality practices. He noted that several facilities currently operating in the country do not meet minimum requirements for classification as hotels or guest houses.
“Some facilities do not even qualify to be a hotel or even a guest house. The protection of South Sudanese people comes first,” Minister Chagor said.
He added that unsafe or substandard facilities will no longer be allowed to operate under hotel or guest house branding.
“You cannot be giving unqualified services to the South Sudanese people that are even dangerous for them and then brand it as a hotel or guest house. That has to be looked at. That is a crime. It should not happen in this country,” he said.
Frederick Jack Omonde, an expert from East African Community Affairs, explained that the classification system evaluates hotels based on physical quality, guest facilities, services, and sustainability. He noted that the system will help South Sudanese hotels stand out from others in the region.
“I am certain that by having this classification, hotels here in South Sudan will be set apart from the rest,” Omonde said. “Most of all, the Radisson Blu Hotel is highly committed to be part of this activity and to support with our old internationally branded hotel exposures that we have, that one that we brought in South Sudan.”
The new system is expected to encourage better management, improved facilities, and higher service standards. Hotels will be graded according to clear criteria that include safety, hygiene, guest comfort, and sustainability practices.
| Hotel Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical quality | Building standards, room size, cleanliness |
| Guest facilities | Restaurants, leisure services, accessibility |
| Services | Staff professionalism, guest support, safety measures |
| Sustainability | Environmental practices, energy and water management |
The Ministry said the classification system will provide clarity for both local and international visitors, helping them choose safe and reliable accommodation. It is also expected to support investment in South Sudan’s tourism sector by encouraging facilities to upgrade services and attract regional and international travellers.
Industry analysts say the move could strengthen South Sudan’s hospitality market and position it as a safer, more competitive destination in East Africa. With proper enforcement, the classification system could help raise public confidence, boost tourism, and create opportunities for local businesses linked to hospitality, transport, and services.
