Government officials, trade representatives, and other stakeholders from Uganda and South Sudan convened a high-level joint border sensitization mission focused on strengthening cross-border trade relations and fostering regional integration on Tuesday.
The mission provided a platform for in-depth discussions on various issues impacting trade between the two partner states, with a particular emphasis on the implementation of One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) and other trade facilitation measures.
A key highlight of the mission was the in-depth review of the performance of the OSBPs, which aim to streamline clearance processes and enhance security measures at border points.
Stakeholders underscored the importance of consolidating various government agencies into one central location to expedite clearance times and simplify procedures for cross-border traders
Reactions from stakeholders echoed the call for an improved understanding of OSBP procedures, gender-sensitive integration efforts, and the need to address environmental challenges affecting trade activities in the area, with particular reference to floods which frequently affect the Elegu-Nimule area.
Other key recommendations included the need for capacity building for traders to fully appreciate and experience the benefits of the EAC integration and infrastructure development to support cross-border trade.
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), Member of Parliament, Honourable Doctor Anne Itto said that the community had put in place various initiatives to facilitate trade and regional integration, and OSBPS take center stage.
“If we do not have the free movement of goods and people, then we do not have integration,” she said. “There is therefore an urgent need to ensure there are facilities to effectively facilitate trade on both sides on the Elegu/Nimule border,” said Itto.
The EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Customs, Trade and Monetary Affairs, Annette Ssemuwemba commended all border agencies for their commitment to ensuring services were offered despite challenges in the execution of their respective mandates.
In responding to the matters raised.
The Deputy Secretary-General said that the EAC Secretariat would work jointly with Uganda and South Sudan in the development of strategies aimed at transforming operations at the Elegu/Nimule border.
“The Secretariat has taken note of all challenges raised and recommendations offered for improved trade facilitation. We shall develop an action plan that incorporates all issues raised, stakeholders charged with ironing out these issues, and the implementation timeframe – short, medium, and long term,” added Ms. Ssemuwemba.
Ms. Ssemuwemba further said that longer-term interventions such as infrastructure development, IT systems interconnectivity, and the provision of facilities for women cross-border traders were essential for sustainable progress and prosperity at the border.
Representing the South Sudan Minister of Trade and Industry, the advisor to the Minister of Trade and Industry in South Sudan; Simon Nyang, said that the OSBP review meeting was critical to the Ministry of Trade and Industry, adding that the Ministry will strive to implement the recommendations of the meeting.
Uganda’s 1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of EAC Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga hailed the diligent efforts of all border agencies in facilitating the movement of goods.
Honourable Kadaga underscored the urgent need for South Sudan to expedite the implementation of the EAC Customs Union Protocol.
“This acceleration is imperative in ensuring citizens enjoy the full benefits of the EAC integration,” said the Minister.
The Minister reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to ensure enhanced collaboration of the border agencies from the two partner states.
“Collaborative efforts are indispensable to navigate the complexities of integration, with a collective focus on ensuring tangible benefits for the populace,” she said.
The Nimule-Elegu border mission served as a testament to the shared commitment by both Uganda and South Sudan towards strengthening cross-border trade and advancing regional cooperation.
The stakeholder engagement session was preceded by an inspection of the Elegu and Nimule OSBPs.