In a groundbreaking display of unity and determination, the World Chambers Federation (WCF) Africa Summit 2025 has emerged as a crucial platform for South Sudan to map a sustainable and inclusive economic path. Held in Nairobi and drawing over 4,500 delegates from more than 70 countries, the summit provided South Sudanese officials and businesses with a rare opportunity to forge new trade partnerships, attract investment, and fully integrate into Africa’s rapidly evolving economic landscape. The event was officially inaugurated by President William Ruto, whose presence underscored the summit’s regional significance.

Organized by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) in partnership with the World Chambers Federation, the summit delivered an expansive agenda that ranged from policy dialogues and investment forums to masterclasses focusing on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), digital transformation, and sustainable development. For South Sudan—a nation still emerging from decades of internal strife and economic instability—the summit offered a vital roadmap for harnessing innovation and unlocking untapped potential.

A Vision for Continental Integration

During the opening ceremony, Trade and Industry National Minister Atong Kuol Manyang, who led South Sudan’s high-level delegation, passionately reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to joining and benefiting from the AfCFTA. “This summit underscores the urgency for South Sudan to integrate fully into continental trade frameworks,” Manyang declared, emphasizing that embracing AfCFTA is not merely about aligning with regional policies but about igniting a long-overdue economic transformation.

AfCFTA, which entered its operational phase on January 1, 2021, is designed to create a single market for goods and services across Africa, aiming to ease cross-border trade, attract foreign direct investment, and promote sustainable development. With over 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of approximately $3.4 trillion, the free trade area is a cornerstone in the Pan-African vision outlined in Agenda 2063—a vision of a continent that is prosperous, peaceful, and unified.

For South Sudan, embracing AfCFTA means unlocking opportunities for entrepreneurs and smallholder businesses that have long operated in isolation. As the nation looks to overcome longstanding infrastructure challenges, political uncertainties, and a fragile economic base, the new trade pact offers the promise of improved market access, streamlined customs procedures, and enhanced competitiveness on the global stage. South Sudan’s participation in the AfCFTA framework is not just a symbolic gesture but a strategic imperative to foster inclusive growth and transformation.

The Summit: Building Bridges and Shaping Futures

The summit was a melting pot of ideas and ambitions, bringing together leaders from government, business, and international organizations to deliberate on key issues affecting Africa’s economic trajectory. Delegates engaged in robust policy discussions and interactive sessions that focused on critical themes like digital innovation, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. Such sessions have proven instrumental in guiding nations like South Sudan on how to leverage their natural resources while adopting modern techniques that ensure long-term economic viability.

The high-level forums facilitated dialogue on best practices for improving trade facilitation, reducing customs inefficiencies, and harmonizing policies across borders. Manyang highlighted that these discussions serve as a launchpad for change: “This is not just a meeting—it’s a call to action. South Sudan is ready to harness innovation, empower youth and women, and champion inclusive, green economic growth.” Her remarks resonated with many delegates who have long advocated for a more integrated regional approach, where collaborative efforts can lead to significant improvements in national economies.

One of the most notable outcomes of the summit was the establishment of several bilateral and multilateral initiatives aimed at facilitating smoother trade and investment flows in East Africa. Through working groups and strategic partnerships, South Sudanese officials have laid out plans to modernize customs operations, invest in technology-driven border management systems, and engage in capacity-building programs that will help local businesses better navigate the complexities of international trade.

Digital Transformation and Innovation: Keys to Inclusive Growth

In today’s global economy, digital transformation is not a luxury—it is a necessity. The summit placed significant emphasis on the role of technology in driving economic progress. Workshops and expert panels explored the transformative potential of digital platforms, fintech innovations, and e-commerce in creating a more robust and resilient economy.

For South Sudan, the digital revolution presents an exciting opportunity. As government officials and private sector leaders exchange insights on building digital infrastructure, there is a growing consensus that technology can bridge many of the gaps that have historically hampered economic development in the nation. From establishing reliable internet connectivity to introducing mobile-based financial services, digital initiatives are being seen as a powerful tool to democratize access to information, streamline government services, and empower entrepreneurs.

One of the key themes discussed was the importance of inclusivity in digital transformation. South Sudan, with its predominantly young population, stands at the cusp of a demographic dividend. By prioritizing digital literacy, vocational training, and supportive policies for tech startups, the nation aims to create a vibrant ecosystem where innovation can thrive and contribute to economic resilience.

In addition to digital transformation, the summit addressed the need for sustainable development—a long-term commitment that involves balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. Manyang spoke passionately about the importance of integrating green technologies and sustainable practices into South Sudan’s economic model. “We must ensure that our development is not at the expense of our environment,” she said. This forward-thinking approach aligns with global initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy—a critical step for a country that is particularly vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change.

Empowering Women and Youth: The Pillars of Future Growth

A recurring theme at the summit was the importance of inclusivity, particularly in empowering women and youth, who are often the unsung heroes of local economies. In South Sudan, where traditional societal structures have sometimes marginalized these groups, the summit provided a platform for advocating gender equality and social empowerment. Through targeted programs, capacity-building workshops, and mentorship initiatives, the government and its partners are working to ensure that women and young people have equal opportunities to participate in and benefit from the nation’s economic growth.

Women entrepreneurs, in particular, have been identified as critical drivers of change. By improving access to finance, training, and networks, initiatives under the AfCFTA framework can help women-led businesses overcome barriers that have long stifled their potential. At the summit, several success stories were shared, highlighting the transformative impact of supporting women in business. Such narratives not only inspire hope but also underscore the practical benefits of a more inclusive economic model—one that values diverse perspectives and harnesses the full spectrum of talent available.

Regional Cooperation and the Path to Economic Stability

South Sudan’s proactive engagement at the summit is part of a broader trend towards regional economic integration, a vital strategy for achieving long-term stability and growth in East Africa. The summit’s collaborative environment has fostered a spirit of cooperation among participating nations, enabling them to share experiences, pool resources, and jointly tackle common challenges.

One key takeaway from the summit was the need for improved infrastructure as a foundation for economic development. Discussions delved into the importance of modernizing transportation networks, building robust energy grids, and establishing efficient logistics and supply chain systems. For South Sudan, which has historically struggled with infrastructural deficits, such initiatives are critical. The nation’s leaders expressed optimism that by working closely with regional partners and leveraging international expertise, it can overcome these challenges and build the foundations for a thriving economy.

Moreover, the summit highlighted the strategic importance of regional trade policies in mitigating the effects of global market volatility. With the African Continental Free Trade Area poised to revolutionize intra-continental trade, South Sudan is well-positioned to benefit from reduced trade barriers and improved market access. The delegation’s active participation in AfCFTA masterclasses provided them with practical insights into aligning national policies with continental objectives, thereby reinforcing their commitment to become a competitive player in Africa’s trade ecosystem.

A Roadmap for the Future

The outcomes of the World Chambers Africa Summit are not limited to high-level discussions and declarations—they provide tangible, actionable roadmaps for nations like South Sudan to chart a course toward sustainable economic development. The summit’s comprehensive agenda has laid out a framework for improving trade facilitation, streamlining customs operations, and fostering an environment conducive to foreign investment and entrepreneurial innovation.

For South Sudan, the roadmap includes several key initiatives:

1. Enhanced Trade Facilitation: Modernizing customs procedures and reducing bureaucratic hurdles to ensure smoother cross-border transactions.
   
2. Investment in Infrastructure: Targeted investments in transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure to support economic activities and attract international investors.
   
3. Capacity Building and Policy Reform: Implementing training programs for government officials and private sector stakeholders to better understand and navigate the evolving trade landscape.
   
4. Promotion of Innovation and Digital Transformation: Encouraging the adoption of digital technologies in all aspects of the economy—from financial services to supply chain management.
   
5. Inclusive Growth Strategies: Ensuring that policies are in place to support women, youth, and marginalized communities, thereby fostering a more equitable and resilient economic environment.
   

As South Sudan embarks on this ambitious journey toward regional integration, it is clear that the nation views the summit as much more than a one-off event. Rather, it is a critical milestone in its ongoing efforts to transform its economy, build stronger institutions, and ultimately improve the standard of living for its citizens.

Voices of Optimism and Determination

The atmosphere at the summit was charged with a sense of optimism and determination—sentiments that resonated deeply with many delegates and observers. South Sudanese officials, industry leaders, and policy experts alike expressed a collective belief in the transformative power of economic integration and innovation. The summit served as both a vision-setting moment and a call to action, prompting participants to look beyond immediate challenges and focus on long-term, sustainable growth.

Trade Minister Atong Kuol Manyang encapsulated this spirit during her address: “We have the opportunity to reshape our destiny, to ensure that our entrepreneurs have the tools, the access, and the confidence to compete on a continental scale. This summit is a launching pad for a new era of economic collaboration and innovation in South Sudan.” Her words resonated with many, as they highlighted the need for bold action and collective effort in building a future where every citizen can share in the nation’s economic prosperity.

Challenges on the Horizon and the Way Forward

While the summit painted an optimistic picture, it also acknowledged the significant challenges that lie ahead. South Sudan must overcome numerous obstacles, including entrenched infrastructural deficiencies, bureaucratic inertia, and the lingering effects of past conflicts. Moreover, aligning national policies with the ambitious goals of the AfCFTA requires sustained political will, deep institutional reforms, and continuous engagement with regional partners.

Despite these hurdles, there is widespread recognition that the path forward is achievable. International partners and regional experts at the summit stressed the importance of long-term investments in human capital, infrastructure, and technology. By forging strong partnerships and adopting evidence-based policies, South Sudan can transform these challenges into opportunities for growth and development.

Regional Implications for African Economic Integration

The World Chambers Africa Summit is emblematic of a broader movement toward economic unity across the continent. As African nations work together to dismantle barriers to trade and investment, the vision of a connected, prosperous, and peaceful Africa moves closer to reality. For South Sudan, this summit offers a chance to not only benefit from continental trade but also to contribute to shaping the policies that will determine Africa’s economic future.

The AfCFTA represents a historic step in this regard—a collective agreement that has the potential to lift millions out of poverty and fuel sustainable development across the continent. By aligning its economic strategies with the AfCFTA framework, South Sudan is positioning itself to tap into a vast network of markets and resources, thereby accelerating its economic transformation.

Conclusion: A Promising Future for South Sudan

In summary, the World Chambers Africa Summit 2025 has mapped a promising economic path for South Sudan, one defined by regional integration, innovation, and inclusive growth. The summit has provided South Sudanese officials and businesses with a robust roadmap for unlocking their nation’s potential—highlighting the vital roles of enhanced trade facilitation, digital transformation, and supportive policy frameworks. Officially opened by President William Ruto and bolstered by the vigorous engagement of over 4,500 delegates, the summit stands as a testimony to Africa’s collective determination to build a prosperous future.

South Sudan is poised on the threshold of a transformative era. By embracing initiatives like AfCFTA, investing in infrastructure and technology, and empowering its youth and women, the nation is set to rewrite its economic narrative. The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but with the insights and collaborative spirit fostered at the summit, South Sudan can and will emerge as a competitive player in Africa’s integrated trade landscape.

As nations across Africa look to the future with hope and determination, the outcomes of this summit signal not just a momentary convergence of ideas but the dawn of a new era—an era where economic barriers are dismantled, opportunities are shared, and the promise of prosperity becomes a tangible reality for every citizen. The journey toward economic integration and sustainable development has begun, and South Sudan is now an active participant, ready to harness the power of innovation, partnership, and strategic vision in its quest for a brighter tomorrow.

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photo source: Google

By: Montel Kamau

Serrari Financial Analyst

14th April, 2025