South Sudan’s growing dependence on Kenya’s Port of Mombasa for its imports continues to rise, supported by notable efficiency gains at the port and along the Northern Corridor. However, certain infrastructure gaps and unresolved border issues present opportunities for enhanced regional collaboration and development.
According to the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), South Sudan is now the second-largest transit market through the Port of Mombasa after Uganda. It played a major role in the 17.4% growth in regional transit volumes, which reached 13.4 million metric tonnes in 2023. This achievement reflects the port’s enhanced operations and improved corridor connectivity.
“Last year, the Northern Corridor recorded a 14% growth. Mombasa Port remains the most reliable gateway for South Sudan,” said Dr. John Deng, Executive Secretary of the Northern Corridor Transit Transport Coordination Authority (NCTTCA). He pointed out that, compared to Port Sudan—which continues to face operational hurdles—Mombasa offers a more stable and predictable alternative for South Sudanese importers.
A key section of the 960-kilometre Eldoret–Juba highway—the 11-kilometre Nadapal–Nakodok stretch—has yet to be finalized. This short segment, located at the Kenya–South Sudan border, presents an opportunity for bilateral engagement to resolve land and security concerns associated with the Ilemi Triangle.
“This short missing link holds great potential for boosting trade,” said Dr. Deng. “Currently, South Sudanese cargo is routed through Uganda, requiring clearance at two international borders—Kenya-Uganda and Uganda–South Sudan—which increases logistics costs and time. A direct road would significantly streamline movement.”
Initially designated for Kenyan government funding, the Nadapal–Nakodok segment has seen reduced external support due to ongoing discussions between the two countries. However, the overall East Africa Regional Transport, Trade and Development Facilitation Project, supported by the World Bank and other development partners, remains a major step toward regional integration.
Once fully completed, the Eldoret–Juba highway is expected to cut transit time from Mombasa to Juba from 8 to 5 days. It will also help decongest the Malaba and Busia border posts, providing a more efficient entry point into South Sudan.
“The economic impact of this road is immense,” Dr. Deng emphasized. “Addressing the remaining section would unlock substantial trade and transport benefits for South Sudan and the wider Northern Corridor.”
Despite pending developments, Mombasa Port continues to play a critical role in supporting South Sudan’s trade flows. With Port Sudan facing operational uncertainties, the Northern Corridor offers a dependable and increasingly efficient route. For stakeholders across the region, completing the Nadapal–Nakodok connection is more than a transport goal—it represents a shared opportunity to enhance regional trade and prosperity.
This article was published by Githua Kihara, an editorial consultant for FEAFFA’s Freight Logistics Magazine. For any inquiries, please contact us via email at editorial@feaffa.com or freightlogistics@feaffa.com, or reach out to Andrew Onionga directly at onionga@feaffa.com / +254733780240.
