JUBA — President Salva Kiir on Thursday officially inaugurated the new Terminal 3 at Juba International Airport, describing the facility as a major milestone in South Sudan’s efforts to modernise its aviation infrastructure while urging greater accountability in the execution of public projects.
The new terminal, launched under the theme “A New Era of Safe, Secure and Sustainable Air Transport for All,” is expected to expand the airport’s capacity, improve passenger services, and strengthen South Sudan’s connectivity with regional and international destinations.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony attended by senior government officials, diplomats, development partners, aviation stakeholders and invited guests, Kiir said the completion of Terminal 3 demonstrates the country’s ability to deliver strategic infrastructure projects despite years of economic and political challenges.
“Today marks a significant milestone for Juba International Airport. I am pleased to officially open Terminal Three,” the president said.
“I extend my sincere thanks to the Ministry of Transport, the Civil Aviation Authority, and everyone who worked tirelessly to deliver this project despite the challenges.”
While celebrating the completion of the long-awaited facility, Kiir used the occasion to call for improved oversight of government contracts, warning that poor contract management has delayed critical public projects in the past.
“As we celebrate this success, we must remember the mistakes of the past,” he said.
“I urge all officials responsible for public contracts to conduct thorough due diligence before awarding them. We must ensure that government projects are not delayed by poor management of contracts.”
The president said continued investment in transport infrastructure remains central to his government’s vision of building a peaceful, prosperous and connected South Sudan.
He added that the new terminal sends a positive signal to the international community that the country is ready to attract investment and deepen economic ties with regional and global partners.
“The opening of this terminal demonstrates that we are moving in the right direction,” Kiir said.
“This progress sends a strong positive signal to the world. I invite international investors to partner with us in advancing South Sudan’s aviation sector.”
Terminal 3 is designed to meet international aviation standards and is expected to significantly improve passenger experience through enhanced facilities, stronger safety and security systems, and more efficient airport operations. The expansion also increases Juba International Airport’s capacity to handle growing regional and international passenger traffic.
Beyond improving air travel, authorities say the new terminal is expected to support broader economic objectives by facilitating trade, boosting tourism, creating employment opportunities and strengthening South Sudan’s position as a transport gateway linking East and Central Africa.
The inauguration represents one of the most significant upgrades to Juba International Airport since South Sudan gained independence in 2011. The airport serves as the country’s primary international gateway for commercial airlines, humanitarian operations and diplomatic travel.
The completion of Terminal 3 forms part of the government’s wider infrastructure development agenda aimed at modernising strategic national assets, improving public service delivery and supporting long-term economic transformation.
Although the inauguration marks the operational launch of the facility, its long-term impact will likely be measured by how effectively it improves airport efficiency, attracts new airlines and investment, and contributes to South Sudan’s broader ambitions of expanding regional connectivity and economic growth.
