Newly-built air traffic control tower near Juba airport. (Photo: File/Courtesy).

The Council of Ministers has approved over $28 million for the operation of South Sudan’s new airspace monitoring centre, which has historically been under Sudan’s control.

The Minister of Information, Michael Makuei Lueth, stated that the proposal, presented by the Minister of Transport, Madut Biar Yel, outlines plans to improve the nation’s airspace control by constructing three radar stations in key locations: Juba, Malakal, and Wau.

This strategic initiative is part of South Sudan’s effort to take full control of its airspace.

Speaking to the media after the cabinet meeting in Juba, Minister Makuei emphasized that the allocated budget will cover the cost of taking over the centre and making it fully operational.

He noted that once functional, the centre will not only enhance national security but also generate revenue.

He explained that all aircraft flying through South Sudan’s airspace will be required to pay for its use, creating a significant source of income for the country.

“The Ministry wanted a sum of 28,414,236 dollars. That is, this is the cost for us to take over the centre and operationalize it, and when this centre is operationalized, it will serve us in terms of security,” Makuei said.

“Our airspace will be secured, it will also generate revenue, and of course, all the aeroplanes that pass over to us in South Sudan.  They will pay for the use of the airspace. But they have not been getting the Sudan government to take it for this time,” he said.

On September 2, 2024, South Sudan’s Ministry of Transport estimated that $25.3 million would be required to take over the country’s air traffic control system from Sudan.

Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan’s airspace has been managed by Sudan.

The decision to establish the airspace monitoring centre followed a request from the transport minister, Madut Biar Yel, for funds to operate the Juba airspace control.

South Sudan launched the construction of an Air Traffic Management system (ATM) in July 2020, completed in December 2023 and is now ready for commissioning.