Faith Nyasuguta
The government of South Sudan has formalized a partnership with Ethiopian Airlines to establish and operate a national carrier, aiming to boost the country’s aviation sector and regional connectivity.
This move follows a significant agreement reached during discussions between South Sudan’s Transport Minister, Madut Biar, and Ethiopian Ambassador Nabil Mahdi in Juba. The recent talks revisited the 2023 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that had initially set the foundation for this collaboration.
Ambassador Mahdi reaffirmed that the Ethiopian Embassy would actively support the partnership’s execution as outlined in the MoU. The deal aligns with the Yamoussoukro Decision, a treaty endorsed by most African Union (AU) member states aimed at liberalizing air transport services across Africa, fostering competitive and efficient airline operations.
Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has struggled to establish its own national airline, largely due to ongoing political instability and the devastating civil war that disrupted its progress.
The country has, for years, relied on private airlines for its aviation needs. Efforts to create a national carrier began as early as 2012 when AtlasGlobal (formerly Atlasjet Airlines) was chosen as a partner, only for the deal to fall through by 2013. Ethiopian Airlines, with its substantial expertise, expressed interest in 2014, proposing a 49% stake in the new venture; however, those efforts also stalled before reaching fruition.
Now, this renewed collaboration is expected to be a turning point. Ethiopian Airlines personnel are set to assist in the management and operation of South Sudan’s airspace, which is transitioning from Sudan’s control to South Sudan’s oversight. This step is considered crucial as the nation works to reclaim and manage its air traffic operations independently.
Transport Minister Biar highlighted the substantial advantages of partnering with Ethiopian Airlines, citing its longstanding success in airline management and regional leadership in aviation. “South Sudan will gain significant benefits from Ethiopia’s experience when we establish our airline,” said Biar. “This partnership will enhance training, management, and operational expertise as South Sudan moves forward with its national carrier project.”
The establishment of a national carrier is poised to bolster economic growth, improve trade links, and elevate South Sudan’s profile in the East African region. The partnership reflects a step towards stability and development as the country takes charge of its airspace, fostering a more connected future.
RELATED:
