The initiative is anchored in the White Nile Corridor development plan, which involves two multimodal logistics routes serving South Sudan

By Emmanuel Mandella

South Sudan has struck a landmark deal with Djibouti to construct river and dry ports across the country, a move expected to reshape the nation’s transport sector, boost trade, and stimulate economic growth.

The agreement, signed by the Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority (DPFZA) and South Sudan’s government at Red Sea World, will see the development of modern ports in Yei, Renk, Nasir, Adok, Bor, Juba, and Shambe, along with two additional towns.

Minister of Transport, Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin, described the deal as a historic step forward for the country and its economic growth.

“This agreement marks a significant milestone in consolidating cooperation with Djibouti. Once implemented, these projects will boost trade, advance logistics, and foster economic growth across the Great Lakes region,” Dr. Lam said after the signing.

According to the Ministry, the ports will serve as gateways for the free movement of people, goods, and services, reinforcing South Sudan’s strategic position as a key logistics hub in the region.

According to sources, the initiative is anchored in the White Nile Corridor development plan, which involves two multimodal logistics routes serving South Sudan- the Djibouti Ports Corridor and the Port Sudan Corridor.

The Djibouti Ports Corridor is a transport corridor that passes through Addis Ababa, Jimma, Gambella, and Nasir, followed by river barge transport through the Sobat and White Nile rivers to Malakal and Juba.

On the other hand, Port Sudan Corridor is a road transport through Kassala and Gadaref to Kosti, then barge transport southbound on the White Nile to Juba via Malakal.

Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority (DPFZA), in a statement published by a leading media in Djibouti, stated that Djibouti’s location at the Bab el-Mandeb strait continues to position the country as a vital trade hub, while South Sudan stands to benefit from more reliable trade outlets.

The high-level delegation from South Sudan toured several key Djibouti facilities. At the Doraleh Container Terminal (SGTD), they reviewed state-of-the-art operations and handling capacity.

At the Damerjog Industrial Park, they were briefed on the Damerjog Liquid Bulk Port (DLBP), under commissioning to serve as a strategic export gateway for South Sudan’s crude oil. The delegation also visited the Djibouti International Free Trade Zone (DIFTZ), where South Sudan has secured a logistics platform to support its trade flows.

“This MoU represents a milestone in strengthening bilateral cooperation and fostering regional connectivity,” said DPFZA in a statement.