By Matik Kueth
South Sudan is expected to host the 7th edition of the Global Logistics Convention (GLC) in 2026, marking the first time the young nation will welcome one of East Africa’s largest gatherings of logistics professionals, investors, and policymakers.
Deng Daniel, President of the South Sudan Freight Forwarders Association (SSFFA), announced this in an interview with King Media on Thursday. He said the event will take place between July and August 2026, though the exact dates are yet to be confirmed.
“South Sudan Freight Forwarders Association has been selected to be the next host of the GLC’s seven editions. Of course, it will be right here in Juba, South Sudan, between July to August. So, we have not yet fixed the date and the month that the event will take place. But we shall do an earlier preparation and also determine when exactly it is going to be,” Daniel said.
Established in 2017, the Global Logistics Convention is a flagship initiative of the Federation of East African Freight Forwarders Associations (FEAFFA), aimed at connecting logistics players, traders, and policymakers across the East African Community (EAC).
The event rotates annually among member states, with Kenya hosting it in 2023, Tanzania in 2024, and Burundi in 2025. Daniel stated that hosting the 2026 edition presents a major opportunity to rebrand South Sudan and showcase its vast untapped potential.
“We are changing the narrative of our country for the better. People outside believe there are no businesses or opportunities here, but South Sudan is a country of golden opportunities with fertile lands, minerals, and an active population ready to trade,” he stated.
The event is expected to attract about 1,000 participants, 70 percent from the private sector, including traders, investors, and development partners.
The SSFFA president noted that the event will also help boost South Sudan’s image internationally, attracting investors who will see firsthand the country’s progress in peace, infrastructure, and hospitality.
“Once investors come here and see the opportunities, they will be ready to invest. As they invest, it will improve the economy and living standards of our people,” he stressed.
He said the SSFFA plans to engage the South Sudan Chamber of Commerce and several ministries, including Trade, Investment, Transport, Wildlife and Tourism, and the Revenue Authority.
“We cannot do it alone in the private sector without the help of the government. Seventy percent of the success of this event will depend on government support,” he said.
Dr. Abraham Maliet, an economist and a senior advisor for the economic cluster, described the upcoming GLC as a “transformational opportunity” for South Sudan’s economic outlook.
“Hosting the Global Logistics Convention is not just a privilege, it’s a powerful signal that South Sudan is open for business,” he stated.
He added, “It will enhance our regional connectivity, stimulate trade, and create investor confidence. It could also be the springboard that integrates South Sudan more deeply into East Africa’s economic network and diversifies our sources of growth.”
The 2026 Global Logistics Convention is expected to position Juba as a rising logistics hub and a gateway for trade in the East African region.