30/04/2026
Who is the new national Minister of Trade and Industry?
Dr. Labanya Margaret Mathya Ugila is an accomplished South Sudanese government official with a distinguished career spanning more than three decades in public service, administration, and national development. Her appointment as Minister of Trade and Industry comes at a pivotal moment, as South Sudan intensifies efforts to strengthen its economy, promote diversification, and attract investment.
Dr. Labanya possesses a strong academic foundation in business and development. She holds a PhD in Development and Peace, with a focus on security and business, from the University of Juba. She also earned both her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration from Makerere University, one of East Africa’s most prestigious institutions.
With over 30 years of professional experience, Dr. Labanya has built an extensive career across key government institutions. She has served in the South Sudan National Bureau of Statistics as well as the Ministries of Education, Petroleum, and Information, Telecommunication and Postal Services. Throughout her career, she has held senior leadership positions, notably as Director General for Administration and Finance, where she demonstrated strong expertise in governance, institutional management, and public sector reform.
Prior to her ministerial appointment, Dr. Labanya served as Director of Corporate Affairs at the National Communication Authority (NCA). In this role, she played a key part in enhancing the Authority’s public image, institutional performance, and stakeholder engagement. Her leadership was widely recognized for its impact and effectiveness.
Her areas of expertise include business administration, policy development, ICT and telecommunications, as well as the oil and commercial sectors. She is also known for her strong capabilities in stakeholder engagement, public administration, and development programming. In addition, she has contributed to the humanitarian sector, reflecting her commitment to both national development and social impact.
An IT specialist by training, Dr. Labanya is skilled in survey methodology, customer and business design, and engagement with donors and development partners. She is multilingual, speaking English, Arabic, Kiswahili, Acholi, and Luganda , an asset that enhances her ability to operate across diverse communities and international platforms.
Following her appointment, Dr. Labanya received widespread recognition and congratulations from colleagues and institutions. The National Communication Authority praised her “inspiring and impactful leadership,” expressing confidence in her ability to excel in her new national role.
Dr. Labanya’s appointment marks a significant step forward in strengthening South Sudan’s economic leadership. Her extensive experience, strategic vision, and proven leadership position her to drive reforms, promote trade, and advance industrial development in support of sustainable national growth.
Source Hot in Juba
