Central Equatoria’ chamber of commerce threatens to sue JEDCO over prices

JUBA, MAY 28, 2023 (SUDANS POST) – The Central Equatoria State Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday threatened to sue the Juba Electricity Distribution Company (JEDCO) over chronic power outages and frequent rate hikes.

Speaking to reporters during a press conference in Juba on Tuesday, Robert Pitia, Chairperson State Chamber of Commerce said traders have lost billions of South Sudanese Pounds due to irregular power cuts.

“Our traders and people are suffering to get electricity which they paid for because of a few groups of selfish individuals, foreigners, and South Sudanese who are looking for their interest only,” said Robert.

He said excessive power tariffs charged by JEDCO have frustrated the growth of local businesses.

“Power is very sufficient; you can’t give a company that is not providing services, efficient and reliable services in terms of this power issue.”

He also called on the government to cancel the contract with Juba Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (JEDCO) and EZRA power providers over frequent rate hikes.

“There is a provision in any contract, terms, and conditions, for example, if the company can’t deliver, there is a provision there to cancel the contract and give this contract to a company that can deliver,” he said.

He accused the power distributor has failed to deliver effective and efficient power to the public.

Juba Electricity Distribution Company Ltd charged $0.36 per unit of electricity.

It is said to be the highest in the region compared with countries like Tanzania which charge $0.12, and Kenya and Rwanda which charge $0.09 tariff per unit respectively.

According to the Ministry of Energy and Dams, the country’s tariff average is 40 cents Kilowatts per hour.

South Sudan relies heavily on the 100 Mega Watt thermal power plants built by Ezra Company Limited along the Nile River.

The power plant was commissioned in November 2019 by President Salva Kiir.