The clarification follows public criticism over the removal of Eng. Mosety Kat Monyjok, who had been widely praised for pushing infrastructure reforms at the airport.
In a statement, the authority said the change was made after guidance received during the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium 2026, where experts stressed the need for South Sudan to fully comply with international aviation rules before the upcoming audit.
“The ICAO audit is mandatory and will specifically assess key leadership and operational positions,” the statement said.
The authority explained that positions such as Director General, Director of Safety and Standards, Director of Air Navigation Services, and Airport Manager are “safety-critical aviation roles” that require “appropriate aviation qualifications, competencies, and relevant operational experience.”
According to the authority, airport management is not only about construction and infrastructure, but also involves aerodrome operations, airside safety, emergency response, regulatory compliance, and the implementation of Safety Management Systems.
“Airport management at Juba International Airport is a specialised aviation function,” the statement added.
The authority said Eng. Mosety holds qualifications in Chemical and Process Systems Engineering, which it described as “a respected engineering field,” but said it “is not aligned with the aviation-specific requirements necessary for airport management under ICAO audit expectations.”
“As part of audit preparedness, the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority has determined that the Airport Manager position must be aligned with aviation qualification requirements, which are currently not fully met,” it said.
However, the authority praised Mosety’s contribution and said the move should not be seen as a rejection of his work at the airport.
“In recognition of his commitment, Eng. Mosety Kat Monyjok has been offered a fully funded scholarship opportunity to study Aviation Management,” the statement said.
The authority also announced the appointment of Capt. Amel James Ajongo as Acting General Manager of Juba International Airport.
“Introducing Capt. Amel James Ajongo, as Acting General Manager of Juba International Airport,” the statement said.
“The Executive and general staff express their full confidence and reiterate unwavering determination to transform Juba International Airport to international standards,” it added.
The authority said it remains committed to promoting qualified South Sudanese aviation professionals and ensuring that “those with the appropriate aviation background are allowed to lead and strengthen the sector.”
A good move that you have realised the need to appoint trained professional in this field. The ICAO audit is not a joke and if a country does not prepare adequately you can easily get downgraded and there will be very little you can do when it happens. The main issue here is compliance and if standards are not met then bad luck. It is good you ave realised in good time that a Chemical Engineer cannot run an Aviation Authority which would be very critical when it comes to dealing with the ICAO to comply with all the Audit requirements. The Director General is quite an important post or in this case an Appointment to run the Aviation Authority.