President Salva Kiir Mayardit has officially inaugurated the newly completed Terminal 3 at Juba International Airport, marking a major milestone in South Sudan’s efforts to modernize its aviation infrastructure and strengthen regional and international connectivity. The commissioning ceremony brought together senior government officials, aviation authorities, diplomats, and invited guests to celebrate the completion of one of the country’s most significant airport development projects since independence. The new terminal is expected to improve passenger services, increase airport capacity, and support South Sudan’s broader strategy of promoting economic growth through modern transport infrastructure.
Addressing attendees during the inauguration, President Kiir described the occasion as a historic achievement for the country. “Today marks a significant milestone for Juba International Airport. I am pleased to officially open Terminal Three,” he said while thanking the Ministry of Transport, the Civil Aviation Authority, engineers, contractors, and everyone who contributed to completing the project despite numerous challenges. He noted that the new facility reflects South Sudan’s determination to build modern infrastructure capable of meeting international aviation standards and supporting the country’s long-term development ambitions.
The President emphasized that investments in strategic infrastructure remain central to the government’s vision of building a peaceful, prosperous, and well-connected nation. He also stressed the importance of accountability in implementing public projects, urging government officials to strengthen oversight of public contracts. “As we celebrate this success, we must remember the mistakes of the past,” President Kiir said. “I urge all officials responsible for public contracts to conduct thorough due diligence before awarding them. We must ensure government projects are not delayed by poor management of contracts.”
President Kiir further stated that the completion of Terminal 3 sends an encouraging message about the country’s direction and future potential. “The opening of this terminal demonstrates that we are moving in the right direction. This progress sends a strong positive signal to the world,” he said, while inviting international investors to partner with South Sudan in expanding its aviation sector and supporting national development.
Government officials noted that the new terminal is expected to enhance the overall passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen Juba International Airport’s capacity to accommodate increasing numbers of regional and international travelers. They added that improved aviation infrastructure will contribute to facilitating trade, tourism, investment, and the movement of people and goods while supporting South Sudan’s integration into regional and global markets.
Several attendees welcomed the inauguration as a positive step for the country’s infrastructure development. One participant at the ceremony said the new terminal symbolizes South Sudan’s commitment to modernization and improved public services, while another citizen expressed hope that continued investment in national infrastructure would create employment opportunities, attract investment, and strengthen economic growth for communities across the country.
Government leaders reaffirmed that continued investment in transportation and other strategic sectors will remain essential to improving public services, encouraging economic expansion, and positioning South Sudan as a more connected participant in regional and international aviation.
