South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"

By Jenifer James
The Chairperson of the Central Equatoria State Chamber of Commerce, Robert Pitia Francis, has urged Sudanese traders to resume their businesses during Sunday’s inspection visit to several markets in the capital, Juba.
The tour included Libya Market, Gudele One, and Konyo Konyo Market, where he sought to assess the situation and understand the challenges traders are facing.
“Today, we had a tour of all the markets to see what is happening in these areas. Each market had its own situation, but I am happy to report that most of the markets are open, and many Sudanese traders have returned to their stalls,” said Pitia while addressing journalists.
Pitia acknowledged that some traders were still hesitant to reopen.
“We spoke to the few traders who have not yet opened their shops, and the main concern was security both in the markets and the surrounding residential areas. We assured them that the security situation has improved, and they should not be worried,” said Pitia.
He revealed that some traders told him that their goods were looted and shops vandalized by rioters and are unsure about returning to their businesses.
“We reassured them that organizations are coming to assist, and there is security available to protect both businesses and homes,” said Pitia.
“We also informed them that every residential area has a quota council, which includes security organs. The quota councils are in place to ensure the safety of all residents, so there is no reason for anyone to be afraid,” he added.
Pitia also appealed to Juba City Council to improve coordination between the quota councils and Sudanese residents.
“There is a need for better communication between the quota councils and Sudanese traders. Many traders have expressed difficulty in reaching their quota council representatives in the residential areas,” he said.
“I urge the City Council to facilitate better coordination so that every Sudanese resident is accounted for, and in case of any issues, they can easily access the support they need,” said Pitia.
He expressed optimism that the situation would improve, with more traders expected to reopen their businesses in the coming days.
A spot-check around Suk-Libya, Gudele, and Konyo Konyo including Atlabara and Hai-Cinema found many Sudanese owned shops closed on Sunday.
However, Motar Abubaker, a Sudanese trader who was able to open his shop in Suk-Libya, said that many traders remain anxious because of the recent riots.
“Traders are still fearful about their safety, considering what happened. I encourage Sudanese traders to resume their business now that the security situation has stabilized,” said Abubaker as he sold goods to his clients.