By Louis Laku
Ethiopia and South Sudan have taken a significant step toward strengthening cooperation in urban planning and housing development following a high-level meeting between senior officials from both countries.
The chief executive officer of the Ethiopian Federal Housing Corporation, Dr. Rashad Kamal, on Friday led an official delegation to meet with South Sudan’s senior presidential envoy on special programs, Adut Kiir.
The meeting focused on exploring opportunities for collaboration in urban development, affordable housing, and infrastructure expansion.
The discussions were attended by the Governor of Central Equatoria State, Emmanuel Adil, and the Mayor of Juba City Council, Christopher Swaka.
During the meeting, the leaders reviewed Juba’s urban development agenda, examining the city’s rapid growth, long-term vision, and the challenges associated with increasing urbanisation.
The parties exchanged views on sustainable city planning, affordable housing initiatives, infrastructure development, and strategies to enhance community participation in urban transformation projects.
Adut Kiir and Dr. Rashad Kamal emphasised the strong historical ties and friendship between South Sudan and Ethiopia.
They underscored the importance of deepening bilateral cooperation in key sectors, particularly housing and infrastructure, to support sustainable development and improve living conditions for citizens.
As part of the visit, the Ethiopian delegation toured ten strategic sites across Juba that have been identified for potential housing and infrastructure investments.
The proposed projects are expected to be implemented in partnership with the government of Central Equatoria State and could play a vital role in addressing the growing demand for housing and modern urban infrastructure.
Officials described the visit as a significant milestone in advancing regional cooperation and promoting knowledge-sharing between the two neighboring countries.
They noted that the partnership has the potential to accelerate urban development, stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and improve the quality of life for residents.
The engagement reflects a shared commitment by both governments to transform Juba into a modern, sustainable, and inclusive city capable of meeting the needs of its rapidly growing population.
It also highlights the increasing importance of regional partnerships in addressing urban development challenges and fostering long-term economic progress in South Sudan.
Both sides expressed optimism that the discussions would pave the way for concrete projects and stronger collaboration in the years ahead, contributing to the realisation of South Sudan’s broader development goals.