South Sudan will host the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) summit in February 2026, marking the first time the country has convened the regional bloc since becoming a full member.
Deputy Minister for Information Technology and Postal Services, David Yau Yau, confirmed that the Council of Ministers has approved the budget for the event and that Salva Kiir has formally given the green light for South Sudan to host the conference. The summit is expected to focus on strengthening cooperation among Nile Basin countries amid ongoing regional disputes over Nile waters.
Yau Yau said the decision follows a cabinet memorandum presented by the Minister for Water Resources and Irrigation regarding the annual NBI summit. He added that, despite current economic challenges, the country is prepared to host the gathering, noting that it is expected to provide an economic boost and create new opportunities for South Sudanese communities.
During a cabinet meeting chaired by President Kiir on Friday, ministers also directed the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, along with the Minister of Finance, to address outstanding arrears related to the initiative.
The Nile Basin Initiative is a regional partnership bringing together 11 Nile riparian states, including South Sudan, to enhance cooperation on shared water resources. The bloc focuses on climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and data-driven research coordination across the Nile Basin.
