JUBA, May 26 (AGCNewsNet) – South Sudan has entered a groundbreaking agreement with Uganda and the Central African Republic (CAR) to construct a 1,800-kilometre regional highway network, in a bid to strengthen trade, boost regional integration, and create employment opportunities across East and Central Africa.

Announcing the trilateral initiative on Monday, South Sudan’s Minister of Roads and Bridges, Simon Mijok Mijak, described the project as “a game-changer for regional integration.” The highway will link Kampala in Uganda to Bangui in CAR through multiple corridors traversing South Sudan, with two main routes proposed to enhance cross-border trade and movement.

The first route would connect Kampala to Juba via Karuma, Arua, Oraba, Kaya, Yei and Juba, with an alternative path through Karuma, Nimule, and Juba. The second stretch would extend from Juba to Bangui, passing through Mundri, Maridi, Yambio, Yubo, Ezo, Bambouti, Obo, and Sibuti, with an additional segment linking Ezo, Source Yubu, and Bambouti to deepen ties between South Sudan and CAR.

“These highways will serve as vital arteries for trade and economic cooperation,” Mijak said. “The Central African Republic seeks to connect with Uganda through South Sudan, and we are committed to making this a reality through coordinated infrastructure planning.”

Beyond improved logistics and market access, the project is expected to generate thousands of jobs, particularly for youth. Mijak noted that the construction would employ labour-intensive methods and spur growth in supporting industries such as logistics, fisheries, and construction.

“Our focus is on empowering communities through job creation and sustainable development,” he said.

The project aligns with wider regional infrastructure goals under the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the East African Community (EAC), both of which prioritise cross-border connectivity and inclusive economic growth.

The three governments plan to jointly mobilize funds for the multibillion-dollar venture through a combination of national budgets, support from international development partners, and private-sector investments.

If successful, the corridor is expected to significantly reduce travel times, lower transportation costs, and boost intra-African trade in goods ranging from agricultural produce to manufactured goods and raw materials.

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Source: Sudan’s Post