CES Chamber of Commerce Meets Mujung on Zoning Dispute

(JUBA) – The Central Equatoria State Chamber of Commerce, along with the leadership of Juba County and Juba City Council, held a meeting on Friday with Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, the Governor of Central Equatoria State. The meeting took place at the State Secretariat in Juba.

The delegation congratulated the Governor on his recent appointment and used the opportunity to express strong objections to a new decision by the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA).

The SSRA recently proposed dividing Juba into operational zones for taxation purposes, a directive the Chamber believes disrupts constitutional coordination between national, state and local governments, especially when it comes to tax and business registration policies.

According to the Chamber, this zoning plan could worsen already existing challenges faced by local businesses. One major concern raised was the issue of multiple taxation in Juba’s markets. Traders say this overlapping taxation is driving up commodity prices and making it harder for small businesses to operate.

Governor Mujung responded positively to the delegation’s concerns and pledged that his administration would fully support efforts to address the problems highlighted by the business community.

After the meeting, Hon. Stephen Lado Onesimo, the State Minister of Trade and Industry, told the press that the Chamber of Commerce would assist the government in regulating market prices while the state works on finding long term solutions to the issues of multiple taxation and zoning. He also called on business owners to cooperate with state authorities.

“The Governor has urged the Chamber and the wider business community to remain calm as the issues raised are being reviewed. He also committed to tackling the problem of unauthorised tax collectors,” Hon. Lado said.

Robert Pitia Francis, Chairperson of the Central Equatoria State Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the Governor’s assurance and said the visit was intended to show their dissatisfaction with the SSRA’s decision. He said the business community is seeking a collective solution to ensure a more stable and fair environment for traders and consumers alike.

Stephen Wani, Chairperson of the Juba City Council Chamber of Commerce, added that the zoning plan undermines important linkages between the national, state and local levels of government.

Christina Ayai Akoy, Secretary for Gender at the Juba City Chamber of Commerce, made an appeal for peaceful dialogue and practical solutions, especially on zoning and taxation, which she said are affecting the cost of goods in the markets.

Business Challenges in Juba