A Lakes State government official refuted reports about a ban on goods from Uganda in Rumbek markets, clarifying that only alcohol packed in plastic sachets was outlawed.
Malok Majak Malou is Lakes State Acting Director of Sudanese Standards and Metrology Organization. He told Good News Radio today that Southern Sudan in general and Lakes State in particular rely on East Africa for many goods, adding that reports of a ban on Ugandan products were wrong.The official was denying last week’s Sudan Radio Service report that “many goods from neighbouring Uganda will no longer gain entry to the markets in Rumbek, Lake State following a ruling to ban them by the State Ministry of Finance, Trade and Industry on Tuesday.”
Mr. Majak clarified that Lakes State only banned the import of alcohol packed in plastic bags, especially Ugandan Waragi, explaining that the liquor posed a security and public health hazard.
He revealed that expired goods in Rumbek market were confiscated during a general inspection but described the state of goods in the market as “alright.”
Mr. Majak said that all goods entering Southern Sudan will be subject to inspection in Kaia, Nimule and Torit to check if their origin and brands are up to standards.
Mr. Majak advised traders in Lakes State to abide by the ban on alcohol in sachets, adding that they will be confiscated.
He called upon consumers to moderate alcoholic and carbonated drinks intake for their own good.