from RAJI BASHIR in Khartoum, Sudan
Sudan Bureau
KHARTOUM, (CAJ News) – SOUTH Sudan is seeking the expertise of Russia to grow its minerals as well as information and communications technology (ICT) sectors.
The world’s newest country, it has sent a high-powered delegation to the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2025, ahead of the launch later on Thursday.
The 28th edition of the four-day forum in Russia will run until Saturday, June 21.
However, the delegation from South Sudan is to spend a week in the Eurasian country.
This is to enable the team to discuss and learn from Russia’s experiences on proper investment in minerals and ICTs, the Ministry of ICT explained.
Thomas Gatkuoth Nyak, the Undersecretary for Telecommunications, is leading the South Sudanese delegation to Russia.
It also comprises Gieth Kon Mathiang, Director General of National Communication Authority, Elijah Alier Kuai, Managing Director of The Media Authority, and Mabe Emmanuel Michael, Secretary General of The Universal Service and Access Fund.
Nyak added that on Wednesday, they participated in a session on global challenges and perspectives of online platforms in the era of digital transformation.
“We had a big conversation with Russian experts on how the existing platforms and technologies can be replaced to effect positive changes in governments policies and businesses,” he said.
The delegation has lined up side meetings with Russian entrepreneurs and relevant government institutions at the margins of the forum.
South Sudan gained independence in 2011 but plunged into civil war two years later.
Since the easing of tensions in 2018, the government has prioritized the growth of its information and communication systems sector.
– CAJ News