Trade Ministry, UNDP Renew Ties to Boost South Sudan’s Trade Sector
By Patricia John
The Ministry of Trade and Industry and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have renewed their partnership to strengthen South Sudan’s trade sector and accelerate key economic development projects.
The commitment was solidified during a consultative meeting in Juba aimed at reviewing ongoing collaborations and advancing pending initiatives designed to improve trade, spur job creation, and foster inclusive economic growth.
Discussions spanned several critical priority areas, including the Diagnostic Trade Integration Study, National Trade and Trade Facilitation Policies, a national E-Commerce Strategy, and the establishment of a National Steering Committee. The plans also incorporate capacity-building workshops and awareness campaigns targeted at expanding economic opportunities for youth and women.
Minister of Trade and Industry Dr. Labanya Margaret Mathya praised the UNDP for its steadfast support, particularly emphasizing the urgency of digital transformation within her ministry.
“The digital transformation of our ministry is essential for improving service delivery and ensuring effective implementation of trade policies and programmes,” Dr. Mathya said. She noted that UNDP-backed internet connectivity upgrades would vastly enhance communication with both national and international partners. “With improved connectivity, we can better engage stakeholders, coordinate projects, and strengthen the ministry’s ability to serve businesses and citizens across the country.”
UNDP Resident Representative Dr. Mohamed Abchir reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to South Sudan’s industrial agenda, labeling the trade ministry a “strategic partner” in promoting sustainable livelihoods.
“Our collaboration is focused on building a resilient trade sector that can create jobs, empower youth and women, and contribute to long-term economic stability,” Dr. Abchir said, adding that the meeting successfully identified new policy priorities to bypass existing implementation bottlenecks.
Both institutions reiterated their shared goal of strengthening trade governance, enhancing market access, and diversifying the national economy to promote inclusive growth nationwide.
