Vice President for Infrastructure Cluster, Taban Deng Gai, has praised the Juba Auto Show as a promising platform for youth enterprise, urging financial institutions to back innovative projects that can accelerate South Sudan’s private sector growth.
Speaking after a meeting with the Auto Show team led by CEO Mandela Nelson Denis, the Vice President said the project demonstrates how young South Sudanese can drive business innovation if given the right support.
“This is a great initiative. Organize yourselves and move step by step, and you will achieve it. My office remains open to support young people with ideas like this,” VP Taban said.
He also called on commercial banks to finance youth-driven ventures, stressing that credit access remains a critical barrier to business development.
Mandela Nelson highlighted that the Auto Show’s long-term vision goes beyond exhibitions.
“We are creating a platform that not only promotes the automobile industry but also opens up opportunities for youth employment, entrepreneurship, and skills development,” he said.
During the meeting, the team presented the Vice President with the latest edition of the Juba Auto Show magazine.
Team member Gloria Johns commended the Vice President’s willingness to engage with young entrepreneurs, noting that high-level recognition was vital for investor confidence.
If successful, the Juba Auto Show could serve as a catalyst for South Sudan’s auto sector by attracting international car brands, stimulating local dealerships, and building service networks.
For VP Deng such initiatives, if paired with financing, could unlock new markets and create a ripple effect across related industries such as spare parts, mechanics training, and logistics.
