Juba Economic Forum 2025: Advancing Agricultural Transformation and Regional Trade Integration

The 3rd Edition of the Juba Economic Forum, organized by the Central Equatorial Business Union (CEBU), was successfully held from May 13th to 15th, 2025, at the Convention Centre of the Central Bank of South Sudan. This annual forum brought together key stakeholders under the theme:
“Promoting Commercial Agriculture as a Pathway Towards Economic Stability.”

The event attracted a wide range of participants from across South Sudan’s economic landscape, including the Deputy President and Chair of the Economic Cluster, senior officials from the national and state governments, members of parliament, and representatives from public agencies responsible for investment, agriculture, trade, and industry. In addition, the forum was honoured by the presence of regional and international organizations, companies, experts, and academics from beyond South Sudan’s borders.

NCTTCAs Active Participation and Key Contributions

The Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority (NCTTCA) played an active role in the forum through its Deputy Director for Private Sector Investment Promotion, who represented the Secretariat’s programs and also participated in high-level panel discussions. Notably, he stood in for the Executive Secretary in the panel titled:

“Exploring East African Markets: The Role of South Sudan’s Private Sector in Regional Trade.”

Prior to this, he was also a panellist in a session focused on:
“The Role of African Governments and Private Sector Stakeholders in Advancing the African Green Economy Agenda,”
with specific emphasis on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

In this discussion, the delegate outlined NCTTCA’s initiatives to promote a green economy, particularly through the Northern Corridor Green Freight Program. He also showcased the Secretariat’s broader contributions to the well-being of corridor users. These included the development of Roadside Stations offering sanitary facilities for long-distance truck drivers—an initiative that not only supports health and safety but also enhances environmental sustainability.

Other key interventions presented included the Wellness Centres Initiative, which, in collaboration with partners, provides social and healthcare services to both corridor users and surrounding communities. Furthermore, the delegate emphasized the Secretariat’s commitment to empowering youth and women in cross-border trade, and he urged stronger government involvement in implementing trade facilitation policies, particularly those that support small-scale cross-border traders.

Promoting the Northern Corridor Business Portal

The forum also served as a platform for the NCTTCA Secretariat to introduce and promote its online Business Information Portal, targeting potential users, especially private sector companies. The Secretariat hosted an exhibition booth, where its team guided participants through the portal’s features and demonstrated its practical use.

During a plenary session, the NCTTCA delegate delivered a well-received presentation on the role of the Business Portal in promoting agricultural trade. The presentation began with an introduction to the Northern Corridor Authority, including its institutional framework, mandate, and accomplishments. The portal itself was highlighted as a vital tool for facilitating business, trade, and investment, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Feedback from participants during and after the presentation revealed a greater awareness and appreciation of the Northern Corridor Secretariat’s role in trade facilitation and regional economic development.

A Positive Outlook for Agricultural Development

The forum concluded on a high note, with renewed hope and commitment toward positioning agriculture as a key pillar of South Sudan’s economic transformation. Participants adopted approximately 40 resolutions aimed at enhancing the agriculture sector, supporting sustainable development, and fostering inclusive economic growth.

As the Juba Economic Forum continues to grow in significance, the outcomes of its third edition have laid a strong foundation for regional collaboration, green economy initiatives, and private sector engagement—all essential elements for a more stable and prosperous South Sudan.