EAC Secretary General, South Sudan President Discuss Key Integration Initiatives

The East African Community (EAC) Secretary General, Veronica M. Nduva, held a crucial meeting with South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir Mayardit, at State House in Juba, discussing key steps towards enhancing regional integration. During the meeting, Secretary General Nduva briefed President Kiir on the preparations for the EAC's Silver Jubilee, which will commemorate 25 years of milestones and address issues hindering further integration.

They also reviewed the agenda for the upcoming EAC Heads of State Summit in November 2024, while emphasizing the need for a comprehensive review of the EAC Treaty to adapt to evolving challenges among member states. The Secretary General proposed establishing a Tripartite Forum on Peace and Security to address shared challenges and promote regional stability.

President Kiir reaffirmed his commitment to the EAC, urging strategies to enhance South Sudan’s integration and intra-regional trade. Secretary General Nduva highlighted the importance of operationalizing the Nimule-Elego border with Uganda to boost trade, calling on South Sudan to align its customs operations with EAC standards. They also discussed implementing the One Network Area in South Sudan to reduce communication costs and enhance connectivity.

The meeting concluded with a call for South Sudan’s Parliament to pass the EAC Treaty Bill, ensuring citizens fully benefit from regional integration. Nduva extended condolences to President Kiir on the passing of his elder sister, expressing her gratitude for his engagement during a difficult time.