A delegation of ministers from Jonglei State, led by Majur Kot Kuir, the Minister of Trade and Industry, has arrived in Yambio, Western Equatoria State, to strengthen inter-state trade relations and foster closer cooperation between the two states.
The delegation includes Sarah Peter Lul, the Minister of Fisheries, Animal Resources, and Tourism, and Thon Lual Aar, the Minister of Cooperatives and Rural Development.
The delegation was warmly welcomed on Monday by the Governor of Western Equatoria State, Gen. Alfred Futuyo Karaba. Governor Futuyo expressed appreciation for the initiative taken by the Jonglei State government to explore trade opportunities between the two states.
“Business should not be confined to one area; it is essential to trade goods and services across regions,” Governor Futuyo said.
He stressed the need for increased agricultural production, urging local farmers to intensify their efforts. “We must work hard to produce enough food, not only to feed ourselves but also to supply other countries, including Uganda. We are committed to empowering our local farmers to achieve this goal,” he added.
Governor Futuyo emphasized that Western Equatoria State has significant potential to become a hub for agricultural production, with aspirations to emulate countries like Uganda in food security and export.
The Deputy Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, also commended the delegation’s visit, expressing optimism about the prospects for strengthening partnerships between the two states in the social, political, and economic spheres.
“This visit is an important step toward fostering cooperation and social cohesion between Western Equatoria and Jonglei State. It is this spirit of unity that South Sudan needs to strengthen its inter-state relations,” said Badagbu.
In his remarks, Majur Kot Kuir, speaking on behalf of the Jonglei state government delegation, underscored the importance of collaboration and trade in driving economic growth and development in South Sudan.