The National Trade and Industry Director General for Private Sector, Benson Bol Anyar, is calling on South Sudanese to enter the water supply business in order to break the monopoly held by foreigners. Anyar made these remarks during the launch of the South Sudan National Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture specialized committees. He emphasized that South Sudanese need to invest in water projects across the country to take back control of the market, as efforts to lower prices through negotiations with foreign traders have been unsuccessful.
Chairperson Losidik Lukak stressed the importance of strengthening revenue collection to aid in the country’s economic recovery and urged citizens to avoid bribery from foreign traders that harm the economy. Michael Francis, Director of the Juba Block, warned foreigners violating new water price regulations that first-time offenders would face fines, second-time offenders could be imprisoned, and foreigners could be deported.
It is evident that the water supply sector in South Sudan is dominated by foreigners, leading to recent price hikes and discontent among the local population. By encouraging citizens to enter this business legally, the hope is to regain control and ensure fair prices and services for all.