By Baraka John
A leading civil society voice in South Sudan has raised alarm over the disorganisation at the Nimule border crossing, warning that it could tarnish the country’s image if not urgently addressed.
Edmond Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), called on national leaders to take swift action to improve coordination and management at the border point with Uganda.
Yakani noted that the lack of structured institutional presence and poor coordination among government personnel at the border, including police, immigration, customs, health, and security officers, reflects poorly on the nation.
“The institutional organization of the officers at the border point is not organized,” Yakani said. “Their ways of doing things or performing their duties are not coordinated, and this disorder is disturbing the image of South Sudan.”
He urged high-ranking officials from relevant institutions to visit the border and implement reforms aimed at improving structure, professionalism, and efficiency.
“The business along the bridge at the South Sudan-Uganda border needs to be organized structures, need organized structure,” he added. “We have the capacity and capability to fix things well at the Nimule border post for the best interest of the country.”
Despite his criticism, Yakani acknowledged some progress particularly within the immigration department which he said had made strides in delivering visa services and easing cross-border travel. He encouraged other government departments at the border to follow this example.
The activist emphasized the need for well-equipped and properly managed institutions that allow officers to serve with effectiveness and dignity.
He appealed directly to the Inspector General of Police, Director of National Security, Chief of Defense Forces, Minister of Health, Commissioner of the Revenue Authority, and Director of Customs to prioritize reform and ensure a well-coordinated presence at the country’s busiest land entry point.
Nimule serves as South Sudan’s main gateway for trade and travel with Uganda, making its efficient operation crucial to the country’s economy and international perception.