Nimule residents issue land for construction of one-stop border post
The agreement will now pave the way for the construction of the European Union-funded modern one-stop border post project, costing 10 million Euros.
By Aguok Chok
The residents of Nimule have reached an agreement with the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) over the land for the construction of a one-stop border post.
The agreement will now pave the way for the construction of the European Union-funded modern one-stop border post project, costing 10 million Euros.
Addressing the media on Saturday, Taban Abel Aguak, the SSRA Deputy Commissioner General said they have successfully concluded the meeting with land occupants, paving the way for the long-awaited project.
“We have concluded our meeting with the SSRA land occupants in Nimule regarding the construction of the one-stop border post project funded by the European Union worth €10 million, and the work is now set to commence immediately,” Abel stated.
He added that the construction will begin without delay, stressing its importance in strengthening South Sudan’s role in regional trade and security.
“The SSRA one-stop border post construction will immediately commence to improve border security and trade facilitation in South Sudan and the East Africa region as well as the Horn of Africa,” he emphasized.
The Nimule border post is one of the most strategic entry points in South Sudan, serving as a key link to Uganda, Kenya, and other East African nations. The modern one-stop border post is expected to upgrade capacity building, infrastructure development, and streamline the movement of goods and people across the border.
One stop border posts (OSBS) have created significant impacts on trade across East Africa. Country which have partnered to construct such posts at their borders have not only reduced trade costs, transport times and border congestion, but also boosted regional trade, tourism, and economic growth.
According to Abel, the immediate commencement of the project had been contingent upon negotiations with local land occupants.
“The immediate kick-off of the project is contingent upon the successful completion of these negotiations, and we are glad to announce that we have reached an understanding,” he said.
The agreement with land occupants is seen as a significant breakthrough that removes a major obstacle to the EU-funded project, which is expected to transform Nimule into a regional trade hub.
With the EU injecting €10 million into the construction, residents hope the modern border facility will enhance economic growth, create jobs, and boost development in Eastern Equatoria State.
The one-stop border post, once operational, will cut down delays at the Nimule crossing by combining multiple border control processes into a single streamlined system.
It will not only improve efficiency, but also reduce corruption and smuggling, while at the same time ensuring compliance with regional trade policies.
The project also aligns with wider East African Community (EAC) goals of promoting regional integration and trade facilitation.
South Sudan, as the youngest member of the EAC, is under pressure to improve its infrastructure to meet regional standards and foster stronger economic ties with neighboring states.
Mr. Abel assured the public that the SSRA is committed to ensuring the timely completion of the project.
“We are fully committed to this project, and with the support of the European Union and cooperation from the local community, we will deliver a modern one-stop border post that benefits South Sudan and the entire region,” he said.
