The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) President, Dr. Erick Rutto, hosted H.E Amb. Anthony louis Kon, the Ambassador of South Sudan to Kenya, for a courtesy call focused on strengthening economic and trade relations between the two nations. The meeting provided a platform for open dialogue on bilateral cooperation, particularly in logistics, health, investment, and regional trade integration.

A key area of discussion was the need to improve logistics and transport systems between Kenya and South Sudan. Both parties acknowledged that high shipping and cross-border transport costs hinder trade efficiency. It was agreed that collaborative measures should be taken to reduce these costs and enhance the ease of doing business across borders.

The healthcare sector was highlighted as a priority, with South Sudan expressing an urgent need for access to affordable, quality medical supplies. Dr. Rutto emphasized that Kenya’s pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity could be a strategic source of medical products for South Sudan. Both sides welcomed the idea of boosting pharmaceutical trade and exploring potential partnerships in health-related investments.

To build stronger business linkages, a joint forum will be organized, bringing together 275 businesses from both countries. The forum will serve as a platform for networking, trade sensitization, and investment promotion. It will also address the trade imbalance that currently favors Kenya, particularly in sectors such as construction, where Kenya exports significant volumes of products and services to South Sudan.

Discussions also centered on the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework to promote wholesale trade in goods and services. Emphasis was placed on harmonizing trade policies, removing trade barriers, and achieving economies of scale to boost regional competitiveness. Both parties agreed on the importance of aligning national strategies with AfCFTA goals to create a more stable and predictable trading environment.

Dr. Rutto underscored South Sudan’s immense potential in tourism, agriculture, and wholesale trade, urging Kenyan investors to take advantage of the untapped opportunities. He also stressed the importance of ensuring the security of investments, facilitating free movement of labor, and harmonizing product standards between the two countries.

Amb. Anthony louis Kon echoed the need for a more structured trade framework. He called for the urgent implementation of pending trade agreements, the creation of awareness among business communities, and the establishment of a South Sudan Chamber of Commerce office in Kenya. He further proposed the development of a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on trade cooperation, which is currently under discussion between the two sides.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to deepen trade relations, foster private sector engagement, and promote regional integration through practical and actionable steps. Both delegations expressed optimism about the future of Kenya–South Sudan trade and investment ties, built on shared vision, cooperation, and strategic alignment.