Activist Urges Government to Improve Governance to Attract Investors

(JUBA) – A policy and political analyst in South Sudan has called on both national and state governments to prioritize good governance as a key step toward boosting development and attracting business investment in the country.

Boboya James Edimond, head of the Institute of Social Policy and Research, made the remarks during an interview with Access Radio on Wednesday. He noted that despite South Sudan’s vast natural resources, weak governance remains a major obstacle to achieving meaningful socio-economic progress.

According to Edimond, the government has a primary responsibility to demonstrate transparency, provide clear policy direction and ensure stability in order to create a conducive environment for investment particularly in the mineral sector.

“For South Sudan to thrive in terms of international investment, especially in the gold mining sector, it is important for the government to strengthen the legal framework, enforce transparent mining laws, and establish clear licensing procedures, including a one-stop mining authority to reduce bureaucracy,” he said.

He emphasized the need for improved governance systems including enhanced transparency, stability, and adherence to the rule of law.

Edimond also urged the government to tackle corruption by introducing digital transaction systems, strengthening security, and eliminating illegal taxation, particularly in mineral-rich regions. He further recommended the establishment of a comprehensive geological database to support the mining industry.

In addition, he called for increased investment in infrastructure, including road networks and electricity to support economic growth and attract investors.

Edimond highlighted the importance of strengthening institutional capacity within the mining and revenue sectors, as well as promoting public-private partnerships with both local and international investors.

“Building institutional capacity and encouraging partnerships with investment partners can help build trust with international firms and boost investment in South Sudan’s mining industry,” he said.

He concluded by stressing that lasting peace, stability, transparency, accountability and the rule of law are essential conditions for attracting sustainable investment into the country.

Last week, the United States Embassy in South Sudan has expressed serious concerns over the lack of transparency in South Sudan’s mining sector, warning that it continues to hinder potential foreign investment.

The concerns were raised following an April 9 meeting between U.S. Ambassador Michael J. Adler and South Sudan’s Mining Minister Lasuba Lodoru. During the discussion, the two officials explored possible opportunities for U.S. investment in the country’s mining industry.

According to a statement from the embassy, Ambassador Adler highlighted “grave concerns” about the lack of transparency in decisions made by the ministry. The statement emphasized that while the U.S. supports business growth in South Sudan, persistent issues around transparency and security remain significant barriers.

For his part, the National Minister of Mining, Losuba Ludoru Wongo, told Eye Radio on Wednesday that the mining sector plays a critical role in the country’s economy and the livelihoods of its citizens, stressing that all operations must comply with national laws and regulations.

He said companies operating in the sector are required to respect the rule of law and adhere strictly to local regulatory frameworks.

Wongo added that the Ministry of Mining is committed to strengthening oversight mechanisms to improve accountability and ensure proper management of the sector