How travel advisories, flight suspension are hurting economy-Economist
Amidst the potential harm that the advisories could pose on the economy, a leadig economist challenges Foreign Affairs Ministry to regularly update the diplomatic mission and investors on the current situation.
By Lodu William and Opio Jackson
A senior South Sudanese economist yesterday said the decision by Flydubai to suspend its operation to and from Juba on April 17 could have been sparked by some reckless political statement.
Speaking exclusively to The City Review yesterday, Dr. Abraham Maliet Mamer also said the recent decision by the German government to temporarily close its embassy in South Sudan has hyped panic, especially among foreign investors.
“It should be noted that the business people are so very concerned about the economy and their investment,” he said.
So, any political statement like the closing of the German embassy, they take it very seriously,” Dr. Abraham said.
He said it was a wrong decision by Germany to leave the country while the United States and France were here in the country operating normally.
“The suspension of flights from Juba to Dubai would create a significant impact on the economic growth of the country since most of the consumable goods of high brands come from Dubai.”
“Well, economically we are going to have a bit of a rough time because it has got a percentage from it,” Abraham added.
Also, he said the country is going to lose its revenue that comes from the flights.
“Yes, it is a loss, it is said that the items that we used to bring are cheaper than Uganda because we used to bring directly.”
The economist advised the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to always update the diplomatic mission and investors on the current situation.
“So, I suggest they also call these airlines and assure them that the country is safe. Your flight can land and can take off,” he added.
“So, I am taking this as a full start to tell the foreign office, please brief the diplomatic community in South Sudan about whatever is happening so that they are actually on the same page with us.”
The economic expert shared the statements following an announcement by FlyDubai that it will suspend its flights to and from Juba, effective April 17, 2025.
The airline, which has been operating direct flights between Juba and Dubai since 2013, has not provided a reason for the decision.
The sudden suspension might leave travelers with limited direct flight options between the two countries.
It remains unclear whether the suspension is temporary or part of a broader operational shift by the airline.
With fewer transportation options, the cost of travel for those seeking to fly could rise significantly and this might affect not only business operations but also the ability of individuals to connect with family or seek employment opportunities in other regions.
Investors typically seek stable environments with reliable access to markets, and flight suspensions may generate uncertainties about the overall business environment.
The combination of supply chain disruptions, although already prevalent in South Sudan, could worsen inflation, particularly affecting basic goods and services that depend on air transport for delivery.
However, the economist said the suspension of Flydubai operation could likely create a ripple effect across various sectors, especially for the business people who import goods from Dubai, ultimately impacting the overall economic stability and quality of life for the population.
Meanwhile, these decisions might cause panics to the rest of the foreign investors, embassies and other international organizations within the country.