The government has re-ordered the removal of illegal checkpoints and unauthorized tax collections along the Juba–Nimule highway, South Sudan’s busiest trade corridor, in a renewed push to protect truck drivers and streamline cross-border trade.
The directive came Wednesday during a joint inspection led by the Commissioner General of the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA), Simon Akuei Deng, alongside the Deputy Governor of Central Equatoria State, Paulino Lukudu Obede, Juba County Commissioner, and senior security officials.
The team toured the Juba–Nesitu–Nimule route, urging officers to stop what they described as illegal practices undermining trade and tarnishing the country’s image.
Speaking at the Nesitu Checkpoint, SSRA boss Simon Akuei Deng condemned the mushrooming of unauthorized roadblocks that burden drivers with illicit fees.
“If we have 15 checkpoints in just five hundred meters, and there are 15 collection points, is it not a shame? We need to stop this,” Akuei said.
He warned that such practices delay truck deliveries, scare off investors, and risk border closures with Uganda, South Sudan’s vital trade partner.
To tackle the problem, Akuei announced the formation of a special committee tasked with combating illegal collections and addressing crimes along border trade routes.
Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu reinforced the state government’s position, saying authorities would begin with dialogue but would not hesitate to use tougher measures if extortion persists.
“We come here as brothers and sisters to correct administrative issues that went wrong. But next time we will return with decisive measures,” he warned.
Security forces echoed the stance. Maj. Gen. Mangar Makeny urged personnel from the Police, Military Intelligence, Fire Brigade, and National Security stationed at Nesitu to remain vigilant and act firmly against officers abusing their authority.
Not the First Time
The government’s latest move underscores a long-running struggle. Successive administrations have repeatedly pledged to dismantle illegal checkpoints on the Juba–Nimule highway, yet the practice has stubbornly persisted.
Truck drivers and traders say they continue to face routine extortion, with some checkpoints allegedly manned by uniformed personnel.
The 192-kilometer Juba–Nimule highway is South Sudan’s main trade lifeline, linking the capital to Uganda and serving as the country’s gateway for essential goods.
But frequent ambushes, armed attacks, arson, and unlawful collections have plagued the route, causing significant delays and raising transport costs.
Officials say the latest crackdown aims to ensure smoother transit, restore confidence among traders, and protect long-distance drivers.
But many in the public remain skeptical, waiting to see whether the new committee can succeed where past directives have failed.
