(JUBA) – South Sudan’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Manyang, has returned to the country after completing two major international engagements aimed at opening new markets and strengthening economic partnerships.
The Minister travelled first to Istanbul to attend the Turkiye Africa Business and Economic Forum, held under the theme “Navigating Global Economic Uncertainty: Strengthening Turkey Africa Partnership.” The forum brought together senior policy makers, investors, and trade officials from across the continent and Turkiye. Discussions focused on how African economies can increase resilience and secure new investment flows.
South Sudan used the gathering to promote its trade potential and explore areas where cooperation with Turkiye could grow. Key topics included expanding trade between African countries and Turkiye, attracting investment into priority sectors, increasing industrial cooperation, and improving access to technology and skills. Officials said these talks are essential for helping South Sudan broaden its economic base and reduce dependence on a narrow set of exports.
From Istanbul, the Minister travelled to Geneva for the Sixteenth Session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. The meeting brought together global trade ministers to discuss international economic trends, challenges facing developing economies, and ways to support sustainable growth.
South Sudan’s participation showed the government’s interest in linking its trade agenda with global policy discussions. Engagements in Geneva centred on supporting least developed countries, improving access to global markets, and strengthening value addition in domestic industries. The Minister’s office said these discussions help shape South Sudan’s efforts to improve its trade systems, attract long term investment, and support local producers.
Officials say the series of engagements is part of a broader strategy to find new economic partners, encourage investment, and create more opportunities for South Sudanese businesses. The government hopes that stronger international links will help promote exports, build industry, and reduce pressure on the economy.
New Funding Opportunity for SMEs and Cooperatives
In related developments, the Ministry of Trade and Industry has announced a major funding partnership with the African Development Bank valued at 525 million United States Dollars. At the current exchange rate, this is equal to about 3.72 trillion South Sudanese Pounds (SSP).
The agreement is designed to support small and medium enterprises, cooperatives, and emerging entrepreneurs. It targets agriculture, trade, and service sectors, which officials consider vital for job creation and long term growth.
A brief summary of the support is shown below:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total funding value | USD 525 million (approx. SSP 3.72 trillion) |
| Target groups | SMEs, cooperatives, entrepreneurs |
| Priority sectors | Agriculture, trade, services |
| Purpose | Business growth, skills strengthening, job creation |
The Ministry has invited local businesses to apply for the programme, saying it offers an important chance to secure financial support, improve productivity, and expand operations. Interested applicants have been encouraged to submit their details through the Ministry’s shared application link.
The government expects the initiative to build confidence in the private sector and support ongoing efforts to grow the non oil economy.
South Sudan Steps Up Trade Diplomacy in Turkiye and Geneva
| Topic | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Minister’s Return | Atong Kuol Manyang returned to Juba after international trade engagements. |
| Main Events Attended | Turkiye Africa Business and Economic Forum (Istanbul); UNCTAD Sixteen (Geneva). |
| Main Objectives | Strengthen trade partnerships, expand markets, attract investment, support economic diversification. |
| Turkiye Africa Forum Focus | Trade expansion, investment promotion, industrial cooperation, technology access. |
| UNCTAD Sixteen Focus | Global trade challenges, support for least developed countries, market access, value addition. |
| Relevance to South Sudan | Opens new trade links, supports export growth, aligns with national development goals. |
| New Funding Initiative | USD 525 million (about SSP 3.72 trillion) partnership with African Development Bank. |
| Beneficiaries | SMEs, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs in agriculture, trade, and services. |
| Purpose of Funding | Business expansion, job creation, improved productivity, private sector growth. |
| Application Status | Open for submissions through Ministry link. |
