Arabic version: جنوب السودان ينفي تقارير طرد الأجانب

According to Allafrica, South Sudan has rejected reports that foreign nationals were ordered to leave the country within seven days. Juba County Caretaker Commissioner Kalisto Lado Faustino Nyigilo said the government remains open to foreigners who are legally resident, while urging them to avoid small-scale retail business.

Lado made the clarification on Tuesday after social-media reports claimed he had ordered foreign nationals out of South Sudan. He said the reports were false and that a commissioner does not have the authority to expel people from the country.

He said South Sudan welcomes people entering legally for business, residence, humanitarian work and other legitimate activities. However, he maintained that foreign nationals should stay out of small-scale retail trade in Juba, including boda boda operations and sales of everyday food items.

Instead, Lado urged foreign investors to pursue wholesale trade, companies, factories and other ventures that can create jobs for South Sudanese. He said his earlier remarks were intended to protect economic opportunities for local youth and women, not to discriminate against foreigners or prohibit foreign investment.

Lado also addressed the removal of roadside businesses and structures in Juba, saying the county was clearing roads, removing garbage and relocating businesses operating on road reserves to designated areas. He urged foreigners living in Juba to remain calm, saying those who obey South Sudanese laws have nothing to fear.