Nimule trucker strike is a security issue, says Chamber of Commerce Chair

The Chairperson of the National Chamber of Commerce, Ladu Lukak, has clarified that the ongoing strike by long-distance truck drivers at the Nimule border is a security matter rather than a commercial dispute.

The strike, which began five days ago, involves drivers primarily from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Somalia. The truckers suspended entry into South Sudan following a violent attack on one of their colleagues in Nimule.

The drivers are demanding the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators, enhanced security along the highway, and the removal of illegal roadblocks.

Speaking on the standoff, Mr. Lukak warned that the continued blockade would lead to a sharp increase in market prices across the country.

However, he emphasized that the Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Trade should not be held responsible for the economic fallout caused by security failures.

“Now there is a problem ongoing which does not concern the Ministry of Trade, but it will be blamed on the Ministry and the National Chamber of Commerce,” Lukak stated.

“It is now [five] days since the truck drivers suspended entry into the country, meaning prices of goods in the market will increase.”

The business tycoon urged security authorities to visit Nimule immediately to address the drivers’ grievances and restore the flow of essential goods.

“I say that the problem is not a Chamber issue but a security concern. I request the security authorities to go to Nimule to address the issue. These are challenges starting with you, even though it is not yours; when prices rise tomorrow, it will be blamed on us,” he added.

The Nimule-Juba highway serves as the main artery for South Sudan’s imports, and any prolonged interruption typically results in shortages of fuel and food items in the capital and surrounding states.