By Staff Writer
Some Drivers and public transport operators plying at Juba-Yei-Kaya highway have raised concerns over what they describe as excessive taxation and the growing number of roadblocks along the key trade and passenger route.
The group warned that the practice is disrupting movement and undermining economic activity.
Speaking to the media, many drivers said they have counted more than 48 roadblocks between Juba and Kaya, where payments are allegedly demanded from both commercial drivers and private motorists.
Agele John, a commercial driver operating on the route, said the multiple charges imposed at checkpoints have significantly increased transport costs and placed an undue burden on citizens.
“We are really suffering from the high taxes collected along this road. It is painful and discouraging. It makes us feel as if the road does not belong to the citizens,” John said.
He appealed to the relevant authorities to intervene and engage those manning the roadblocks to reduce the fees, arguing that easing transport costs would help revive economic activity and encourage displaced South Sudanese to return home.
Public transport operators have echoed similar concerns. Juma Mawa, a motorist who regularly carries passengers between towns along the highway, said payments are required at nearly every checkpoint.
“Each roadblock demands payment, and this has greatly affected our movement. As citizens, we have the right to move freely, especially when there is peace,” Mawa said.
He called for the regulation of roadblocks in accordance with the law, noting that uncoordinated revenue collection increases fares, discourages travel, and affects the delivery of goods and services.
Legal mandate on revenue collection
Under South Sudanese law, the authority to collect taxes, fees, and customs duties rests with legally established institutions, including the National Revenue Authority (NRA) and other designated government agencies operating under the Taxation Act, 2009 (as amended) and the Public Finance Management and Accountability Act, 2011.
The laws stipulate that revenue collection must be lawful, transparent, standardized, and authorized, and that no individual or security unit may impose taxes or fees without a clear legal mandate. Roadblocks, where established, are intended primarily for security and regulatory purposes, not ad-hoc revenue collection.
Economists and civil society groups have repeatedly warned that unauthorized checkpoints and multiple informal charges can inflate transport costs, restrict trade, and weaken public confidence in state institutions.
As the Juba-Yei-Kaya Road remains a vital corridor linking South Sudan to neighboring countries, drivers and traders say addressing the issue of roadblocks will be critical to improving mobility, boosting commerce, and supporting post-conflict economic recovery.