Kenya and South Sudan are taking a significant step toward enhancing regional trade and connectivity with the upcoming construction of an 11-kilometre road linking the two countries. The project, which will be built on the disputed Ilemi Triangle, is expected to revolutionize cross-border movement by improving transport efficiency, lowering the cost of moving goods, and strengthening economic ties between the two East African nations.
The move follows South Sudan’s approval of a proposal by the Northern Corridor Transit Transport Coordination Authority (NCTTCA) to develop the critical stretch. Once completed, the road will not only facilitate the smooth flow of goods and services between Kenya and South Sudan but also serve as a vital link in the larger Northern Corridor network, which connects landlocked countries in the region to key seaports.
Trade between Kenya and South Sudan has continued to grow over the years, but high transportation costs and poor road infrastructure have remained a major challenge for businesses. The new road is expected to significantly cut travel time, reduce vehicle maintenance costs, and improve access to markets for traders on both sides of the border.
Officials say the project will also bring social benefits, including improved mobility for border communities, easier access to health and education services, and greater opportunities for small-scale cross-border commerce. The road will further complement other regional integration projects under the East African Community (EAC), aimed at promoting economic growth, enhancing political cooperation, and fostering peace and stability in the region.
By addressing one of the most persistent logistical bottlenecks in cross-border trade, the 11-kilometre road is set to become a game-changer for businesses, travelers, and local communities, cementing Kenya and South Sudan’s position as key players in regional economic development.
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