JUBA – The governor of South Sudan’s Central Equatoria State, Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, on Friday officially launched the construction of an $8 million modern market in Gumbo, on the outskirts of Juba.
The project, valued at eight million USD, is expected to promote trade and job creation, serving as a foundation for urban transformation and fiscal growth in the state.
Speaking during the launch of the project on Friday in Juba, Governor Mujung stated that the initiative aims to address the rapid urbanization of the capital and the pressing need to alleviate congestion and informal trading.
“Markets are not just trading points—they form the heartbeat of an economy. This initiative will ensure safe, orderly, and hygienic trading conditions that drive local socio-economic growth,” Mujung said.
He stated that his government is collaborating with the National Government and local authorities to establish more organized market spaces.
He acknowledged the development partners for their ongoing collaboration and encouraged greater investment throughout the state, noting that many communities still lack sufficient market facilities.
For his part, Salah Rajab Bunduki, the State Minister of Finance, Planning, and Investment, recognized the initiative as a driver for grassroots economic empowerment, stating that similar projects will be implemented in other counties.
This is not only a market but a cultural center that will celebrate the heritage of Central Equatoria State and South Sudan,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Mr. Stephen Lado Onesimo, State Minister of Trade and Industry and organizer of the event, stated that the project is in line with the State’s Economic Cluster Policies.
He stated that the project focuses on promoting growth led by the private sector, diversifying income, creating jobs, alleviating congestion in Juba markets, and improving regional trade by enhancing logistics and storage capacity.
Mr. Juma Khamis Juma, Chairman of the Central Equatoria Business Union, emphasized the need for improved access to capital and enhanced stability to support the growth of local enterprises.
Olivia Swaka, representing Gumbo Holdings Limited, highlighted the partnership, describing the market as a “model of sustainable, inclusive development that empowers communities for future generations.”
The ceremony drew top state government officials, business leaders, partners, and representatives from FAO, UNDP, and the World Bank, who pledged continued support for market development and infrastructure upgrades in the state.
