Remarks by Ambassador Pelle at the Nimule OSBPP Steering Committee Meeting

The Nimule One Stop Border Post Project Steering Committee
Meeting in the European Union Delegation on 12.08.2026

REMARKS BY EU AMBASSADOR H.E. PELLE ENARSSON

Honourables, representatives of the Government of South Sudan, regional and local stakeholders, representatives of UNOPS and TradeMark Africa, ladies and gentlemen, all protocols observed.

It is with great pleasure that I open this meeting of the Project Steering Committee, and I would like to thank all stakeholders and implementing partners for their continued commitment and cooperation in supporting the implementation of this important initiative.

First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to the Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr. Labanus Margaret Manya Lugia, the Minister for Finance & Planning Mr. Kual Daniel Ajuio, the Minister for East African Community Affairs Gen. Pieny Deng Ajui and, the Commissioner General for the South Sudan Revenue Authority Amb. Moas Deng Ajuit and, my dear friend from my visit recently to Nimule, the Mayor of Nimule His Worship Ceasar Longa Fuli for coming today. This clearly shows the commitment and engagement in this project by the Government of South Sudan and involved local authorities. The close collaboration between the Government of South Sudan, local governments, implementing partners, and the European Union remains essential to ensuring the success of this initiative.

Since the last Steering Committee, important progress has been achieved, including key design milestones that will allow the project to move forward towards the next stages of implementation. At the same time, we recognize that the project is entering a critical phase where effective coordination, timely decision-making, and proactive management of emerging risks will be essential. The current global economic environment, including increased costs of construction materials and fuel, presents challenges that require careful consideration to safeguard the project's objectives and ensure sustainable outcomes.

Today's Steering Committee meeting provides an important opportunity to discuss these challenges and identify practical solutions. Issues related to procurement planning, project costs, the long-term sustainability of the infrastructure, and engagement with local communities are important matters that require detailed technical discussions and decisions among the relevant experts and implementing partners.

As the presentation will show in a few minutes, the project is at a critical stage. The Steering Committee must provide strategic guidance, mobilizing resources, strengthen coordination among stakeholders, and make the informed decisions needed to maintain momentum and achieve solid, sustainable results.

I encourage all participants to engage openly and constructively with a shared focus on delivering quality infrastructure that responds to the needs of communities and contributes to stronger trade facilitation and regional connectivity.

This project reflects the European Union's commitment to supporting regional connectivity and integration, economic development and improved opportunities for the people of South Sudan. Through initiatives such as this, we aim to strengthen partnerships and support investments that generate lasting benefits for communities and contribute to the country's development priorities.

In conclusion, I would like to thank all stakeholders for their continued collaboration and commitment. I look forward to productive discussions today and to the continued collective efforts to ensure the successful implementation of this important project.

Thank you.