South Sudan Joins COMESA Summit in Nairobi

(JUBA) – The National Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon Atong Kuol Manyang, departed Juba on Tuesday to represent President Salva Kiir Mayardit at the 24th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Summit taking place in Nairobi, Kenya.

The regional summit being held from 7th to 9th October 2025 at the Kenya International Convention Centre (KICC) brings together Heads of State and senior government officials from across the COMESA member states to discuss regional trade, investment, and economic cooperation.

According to the Trade Ministry, Minister Atong Kuol Manyang’s participation at the high level gathering reflects South Sudan’s continued engagement in regional economic integration efforts.

Her attendance is viewed as a signal of the country’s growing role within COMESA, especially as South Sudan works to expand its trade opportunities across Eastern and Southern Africa.

According to officials at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, South Sudan aims to use the summit to strengthen trade ties with its neighbours and promote private sector growth.

The country’s membership in COMESA offers access to a regional market of over 600 million people and opportunities to attract investment in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, and infrastructure.

The summit will also review progress on the implementation of regional free trade initiatives and address barriers affecting cross-border trade among member states. South Sudan is expected to highlight its need for improved infrastructure and logistical support to boost export competitiveness.

Government sources said Minister Atong Kuol Manyang is expected to hold meetings on the sidelines of the summit with other trade ministers and development partners to discuss ways of enhancing South Sudan’s participation in regional value chains and industrial development.

The COMESA Summit comes at a time when South Sudan is making efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil, with the Ministry of Trade and Industry focusing on empowering local businesses, improving trade policy, and expanding access to regional markets.

The Ministry confirmed that Minister Atong Kuol Manyang will deliver a message from President Salva Kiir Mayardit to the Heads of State and Government attending the summit and reaffirm South Sudan’s commitment to regional peace, stability and shared prosperity.