South Sudan Strengthens Ties in Africa Standards Body

(Nairobi) – The African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) continued its 31st General Assembly on June 26, 2025, with South Sudan participating as an active member in key decision making and planning sessions. The second day of the assembly focused on strategic and financial reporting, leadership transition, and membership expansion.

The Secretary-General of ARSO presented a detailed report on the organisation’s Strategic Plan for 2022 to 2027. This report covered the achievements and challenges of the year from July 2024 to June 2025. It also included recommendations for the next phase of implementation. The report was followed by a review and discussion of the audited financial reports for the year ending December 31, 2024.

In a major development during the assembly, the ARSO Council submitted its report highlighting the resolutions passed during its 71st and 72nd sessions. These meetings contributed to shaping policies and operational direction for ARSO’s standardisation work across the continent.

The assembly also witnessed a ceremonial handover of leadership from outgoing ARSO President, Professor Alex Dodoo, to Mr. Botsile Kebapetse. Mr. Kebapetse was elected as President during the 30th General Assembly held in 2024 in Abuja, Nigeria. His official assumption of office marks a new phase for ARSO as it continues to lead efforts to harmonise standards across African countries.

In addition to the leadership transition, elections were conducted for new positions within the organisation. Eleven new members were elected to serve on the ARSO Council, which guides the body’s governance. Six additional members were appointed to the Standards Management Committee (SMC), responsible for technical oversight of standard development.

Another milestone was the formal admission of The Gambia as a new ARSO member state, expanding the organisation’s continental footprint.

The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards, which represents the country at ARSO events, shared updates on the proceedings, reinforcing South Sudan’s engagement in regional standardisation efforts. Participation in ARSO remains an important step toward aligning national policies with continental standards.

The General Assembly provides a platform for African countries to coordinate on quality infrastructure, trade facilitation, and industrial competitiveness, critical areas for emerging economies like South Sudan.