(Wau) – The government of Western Bahr El Ghazal State in South Sudan has introduced a sweeping ban on 16 alcoholic beverages and narcotic substances, many of which are imported from Uganda. The decision has raised concerns over potential violations of East African Community (EAC) trade agreements and is straining relations between Juba and Kampala.
According to Council of Ministers Resolution No. 18/2025, dated 16 June 2025 and signed by State Secretary General Hillary Claudio Musa, the ban includes popular Ugandan products such as Uganda Waragi, Royal Blue, Imperial Distilled Gin, and Boss Gin. The resolution also prohibits locally brewed alcohol like Siko and Arcegi, as well as banned substances such as tramadol and crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “Ice.”
The government stated that the move is aimed at addressing growing public health concerns, rising crime rates, and the social consequences of substance abuse, particularly among youth. The resolution is to be enforced immediately across the state.
However, the ban has sparked immediate criticism from regional trade experts and diplomats, who argue that the decision may violate Article 75 of the EAC Treaty. This treaty guarantees the free movement of goods within the EAC and prohibits unilateral non-tariff barriers between partner states.
A Kampala-based trade negotiator, speaking anonymously, said, “This is not just an internal policy—it amounts to a regional trade blockade. Banning specific Ugandan brands without consultation or scientific evidence sets a dangerous precedent for the EAC.”
Uganda’s Ministry of Trade is reportedly preparing a formal diplomatic complaint to be submitted to the South Sudanese national government. Kampala may also pursue legal action through the East African Court of Justice if bilateral talks fail.
The resolution arrives at a sensitive time. Uganda has played a key role in South Sudan’s history, including supporting the country’s struggle for independence and providing ongoing security and diplomatic assistance during periods of internal conflict. Ugandan officials expressed disappointment at the sudden decision.
“Uganda shed blood and treasure for South Sudan’s liberation. For its products to now be banned without dialogue or scientific review is regrettable,” said an official at Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs who is familiar with the issue.
In response to the ban, Ugandan traders operating in Nimule, Wau, and other areas near the South Sudanese border have already begun removing the banned products from shelves to avoid penalties.
Under the new policy, violators face severe consequences:
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Factories that continue production face fines of SSP 20 million (approx. USD 12,700) and six months imprisonment.
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Companies are subject to SSP 10 million (approx. USD 6,350) in fines and three months imprisonment.
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Wholesalers risk fines of SSP 5 million (approx. USD 3,175) and two months in jail.
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Retailers face fines of SSP 2.5 million (approx. USD 1,587) and one month in jail.
The implementation of the resolution will be carried out by the State Ministry of Trade, Industry and Mining, with support from the South Sudan Police Service, the National Security Service, and other law enforcement agencies.
Trade experts warn that the fallout could become a contentious issue in upcoming EAC ministerial meetings, where the enforcement of the Common Market Protocol and mechanisms for resolving intra-regional trade disputes will likely be discussed.
For South Sudan, the situation places added pressure on national authorities to balance local governance decisions with regional trade obligations. It also exposes wider tensions within the EAC over how partner states handle internal challenges without disrupting cross-border commerce.
As of now, it remains to be seen whether the ban will remain in place or if diplomacy will lead to a reversal or compromise.
