The Government of Western Equatoria State has endorsed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for trade and industry collaboration with Jonglei State.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Friday after a council of ministers meeting, Ann Tuna Richard, the state’s Acting Minister of Information and Communication, Ann tuna said the deal with Jonglei State to supply fish will create a stable market and boost economic activity.
The agreement stipulates that all fish heading to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) must pass through Western Equatoria State which will collect taxes, further increasing revenue and supporting local trade.
The state ministers resolved to upgrade the airstrip Infrastructure. USD 1.3 million has been allocated for the construction of a new terminal and the renovation of the VIP lounge at Yambio Airstrip. This project, led by the Minister of Roads, Transport, and Bridges, is designed to enhance air travel infrastructure and improve connectivity. The cabinet also discussed strategies to reduce parental contributions in public schools to make education more accessible.
“This MoU will enable Western Equatoria to benefit from taxation, as fish traders transporting their goods from Jonglei to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will pass through our state, where they will be taxed,” Tuna explained. “This initiative will not only boost state revenue but also foster a strong trade relationship between our two sisterly states.”
She also noted that the agreement was unanimously approved by the cabinet which acknowledged its strategic importance for both states.
“We urge the national government to prioritize the construction of the trunk road from Juba to Western Equatoria. The poor condition of this road, especially during the rainy season, poses a significant challenge to trade operations. We need intervention from the National Ministry of Roads and Bridges to facilitate the movement of traders and heavy transport vehicles,” Tuna said. “By approving this agreement, we are ensuring that future governments can implement it without delays. This trade deal is critical for the economic growth of both Western Equatoria and Jonglei states.”
The approval of this MoU is a significant milestone toward enhancing inter-state trade, boosting revenue, and fostering regional cooperation. With proper infrastructure and policy support, the agreement is expected to contribute to the economic stability of both states and the surrounding region.