Financial Preparation

• Determine your risk tolerance and investment timeframe (minimum 5-7 year horizon recommended)
• Establish a total investment budget (property + transaction costs + substantial reserves)
• Research historical SSP/USD exchange rates to understand currency volatility
• Set up banking relationships with international banks operating in Juba
• Prepare financial documents demonstrating source of funds (critical for approval process)
• Evaluate potential need for political risk insurance (available through MIGA, OPIC)
• Establish clear investment metrics and return expectations accounting for risk premium

Market Research

• Identify target cities based on investment goals and risk tolerance
• Research neighborhood-specific security situations and infrastructure access
• Connect with South Sudanese diaspora community for market perspectives
• Subscribe to regional business publications covering East African real estate
• Analyze infrastructure development plans and humanitarian sector activity
• Research tenant demographics focusing on expatriate and government sectors
• Plan an exploratory market visit with local guide and security arrangements

Professional Network Development

• Connect with attorneys specializing in South Sudanese real estate law and foreign investment
• Identify potential local business partners with strong community relationships
• Research property management companies experienced with expatriate standards
• Establish contact with security consulting firms operating in South Sudan
• Find an accountant familiar with cross-border investment structures
• Connect with your nation’s embassy commercial attaché in Juba
• Identify reputable construction and maintenance contractors

Expert Tip: South Sudan’s real estate market is highly relationship-driven and much less formalized than North American markets. Plan for significantly longer time horizons for all aspects of the investment process. The dry season (December-April) is generally the most favorable time for property viewing trips as road conditions improve and construction activity increases, making it easier to assess development potential and accessibility issues.

Recent Regulatory Change: The Investment Promotion Act of 2019 introduced a “one-stop shop” investment authority designed to streamline foreign investment approvals. While implementation remains inconsistent, this authority now serves as the primary point of contact for foreign investors. All entity structures must register with this authority and obtain an investment certificate before finalizing property transactions. The certificate application requires submission of a business plan, proof of funds, and details of local economic impact.

Banking Setup

• South Sudan Bank Account Options:
  • International banks with local presence: KCB Bank South Sudan, Equity Bank, Stanbic Bank
  • Local banks: More limited services but potentially better government connections
  • Mobile banking services: Emerging but unreliable in most regions
• Typical Requirements:
  • Passport/identification
  • Business visa or investment certificate
  • Proof of company registration in South Sudan
  • Tax identification number
  • In-person appointment in Juba
  • Reference letters from existing bank
  • Detailed source of funds documentation
• Banking Challenges:
  • Limited international transfer capabilities
  • Significant currency risk with South Sudanese Pound
  • Account maintenance typically requires physical presence
  • Cash-based economy with limited electronic banking
  • Frequent service disruptions and operational challenges

Financing Options

Unlike developed markets, financing options within South Sudan are extremely limited. Most foreign investors use one of these approaches:

1. Self-Financing:
   • Most common approach for foreign investors
   • Capital imported from home country
   • Provides maximum flexibility and independence
   • Eliminates local debt service risk
2. Development Finance Institutions:
   • International Finance Corporation (IFC) for larger commercial projects
   • African Development Bank programs for qualifying investments
   • Typically requires significant development impact metrics
   • Long application process but favorable terms
3. Partner Financing:
   • Local partner contributes land as equity
   • Foreign investor provides construction financing
   • Profit-sharing based on proportional contributions
   • Requires careful valuation and documentation
4. Home Country Financing:
   • Mortgages on existing North American properties
   • Business lines of credit from home country banks
   • Avoids South Sudanese banking system limitations
   • May offer tax benefits in home jurisdiction

Commercial mortgage loans from South Sudanese banks are theoretically available but practically inaccessible to most foreign investors due to high interest rates (20-35%), short terms (1-5 years), large down payment requirements (50%+), and extensive collateral demands beyond the property itself.

Currency Management

The South Sudanese Pound (SSP) experiences significant volatility, creating both risks and challenges:

• Exchange Rate Considerations:
  • Track both official and parallel market exchange rates
  • Significant spread between official and actual rates
  • History of rapid devaluation during political uncertainty
  • Currency controls can limit repatriation of profits
• Currency Strategies:
  • Structure lease agreements in USD when possible
  • Maintain minimum operating capital in SSP
  • Consider offshore accounts in Kenya or Uganda for liquidity
  • Use reputable currency exchange services rather than informal markets
• Income Repatriation:
  • Understand Central Bank approval requirements for transfers
  • Document all funds brought into the country
  • Maintain excellent record-keeping for all currency movements
  • Build relationships with bank managers for smoother processing

Currency management represents one of the most significant challenges for foreign investors in South Sudan. Projects should be structured to generate hard currency revenue (through expatriate tenants or international organizations) whenever possible to reduce exposure to local currency risks.

Property Search Resources

• Local Property Agents:
  • Thok Real Estate (Juba-based with international connections)
  • South Sudan Property Centre (specializes in expatriate housing)
  • Local independent agents (varying levels of professionalism)
  • Note: Agency relationships are informal; most represent sellers, not buyers
• Direct Networking:
  • Expatriate community forums and social media groups
  • Local business associations and chambers of commerce
  • International NGO administrative staff
  • Embassy connections and commercial sections
• Government Resources:
  • Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development
  • South Sudan Investment Authority
  • State and local government land offices
  • Note: Information may be incomplete or outdated
• Property Development Companies:
  • Juba-based developers with upcoming residential projects
  • East African development firms entering the market
  • Pre-construction purchasing opportunities

Unlike developed markets, there is no comprehensive multiple listing service or reliable online property portal for South Sudan. The property search process is highly relationship-based and requires significant on-the-ground networking. Many of the best opportunities are never publicly advertised.

Property Viewing Trip Planning

Given the complexities of South Sudan, careful preparation for property viewing is essential:

1. Pre-Trip Research:
   • Identify neighborhoods based on security assessments
   • Make contact with potential agents and partners before arrival
   • Arrange proper business visa (tourist visas limit property activities)
   • Secure reliable transportation and accommodation in advance
   • Consider security arrangements and local guides
2. Trip Logistics:
   • Plan 7-14 days minimum for an initial visit
   • Base yourself in secure hotel or guesthouse compounds
   • Schedule meetings with government officials early in visit
   • Allow significant buffer time between appointments
   • Prioritize morning viewings during cooler temperatures
3. During Viewings:
   • Document everything with photos, video, and notes
   • Assess water and power availability (critical infrastructure issues)
   • Inquire about land disputes or competing claims
   • Assess neighborhood security conditions
   • Meet neighboring property owners when possible
   • Verify boundary markers and compare to documents
4. Consider using a local “fixer” who can:
   • Navigate government offices
   • Translate during meetings
   • Provide cultural context
   • Assist with logistics and transportation
   • Help verify information provided by sellers

South Sudan presents unique challenges for property viewing trips. Safety considerations should always take priority, and flexibility is essential as schedules frequently change. Multiple visits are typically required before finalizing any transaction, so view the first trip as primarily relationship-building and preliminary assessment.

Property Evaluation Criteria

Assess potential investments using these key South Sudan-specific criteria:

• Security Factors:
  • Proximity to international organizations or government compounds
  • Recent security incidents in neighborhood
  • Perimeter wall condition and access control
  • Street lighting and visibility
  • Community relationships and tribal dynamics
  • Distance from potential conflict zones
• Infrastructure Access:
  • Power reliability (city power vs. generator requirements)
  • Water source and quality (well vs. city supply)
  • Road conditions in rainy season
  • Telecommunications connectivity
  • Drainage systems for flood prevention
  • Distance to key facilities (hospitals, embassies, markets)
• Legal Clarity:
  • Documentation completeness and authenticity
  • History of ownership and potential disputes
  • Community claims vs. government allocation
  • Approvals from multiple government levels
  • Survey accuracy and boundary markers
  • Zoning and land use permissions
• Rental Potential:
  • Proximity to international organizations and diplomatic missions
  • Security features appealing to expatriate tenants
  • Amenities meeting international standards
  • Hard currency rental potential (USD-based contracts)
  • Occupancy rates of similar properties
  • Potential tenant pipeline (NGOs, embassies, oil companies)
• Financial Considerations:
  • Price comparison with similar properties (limited market data)
  • Renovation/upgrade costs to meet international standards
  • Operating cost estimates (security, generators, water)
  • Currency risk exposure in rental agreements
  • Exit strategy viability and potential buyer pool
  • Capital repatriation considerations

Expert Tip: In South Sudan, properties that have been continuously occupied and maintained often represent better investments than vacant land or abandoned structures, despite higher initial costs. This is because continuous occupation establishes a clearer possession history, reducing the risk of competing claims. Additionally, focus on properties with self-sufficient infrastructure (reliable generators, water tanks, satellite internet connections) to minimize dependence on underdeveloped public services. Properties within compounds or clusters of international organizations offer both better security and more stable tenant potential.

Legal Due Diligence

• ✓
  Title Verification: Confirm ownership through Ministry of Lands records at both national and state levels
• ✓
  Land Registration Search: Verify legal status and any existing claims or liens
• ✓
  Community Consultation: Verify absence of traditional or historical claims from local communities
• ✓
  Local Government Approval: Confirm proper allocation and approvals at county level
• ✓
  Boundary Verification: Professional survey to confirm boundaries against documentation
• ✓
  Lease Terms Review (if leasehold): Legal analysis of terms, renewal options, and restrictions
• ✓
  Payment History: Verify all required taxes and fees have been paid to date
• ✓
  Dispute History Research: Investigate any current or past property disputes

Physical Due Diligence

• ✓
  Structural Assessment: Engage qualified engineer to assess structural integrity
• ✓
  Water Source Evaluation: Test water quality and reliability from wells or municipal supply
• ✓
  Power System Inspection: Assess electrical systems, generators, and backup capacity
• ✓
  Environmental Assessment: Check for contamination, flooding risk, and seasonal hazards
• ✓
  Security Infrastructure: Evaluate perimeter protection, access control, and evacuation options
• ✓
  Telecommunications Access: Test internet connectivity and mobile network coverage
• ✓
  Renovation Assessment: Detailed cost estimation for upgrades to international standards

Financial/Strategic Due Diligence

• ✓
  Market Value Assessment: Comparative analysis with recent transactions (limited data)
• ✓
  Tenant Pipeline Research: Identify potential expatriate or organizational tenants
• ✓
  Operating Cost Projection: Detailed budget for security, maintenance, utilities, staff
• ✓
  Tax Assessment: Review of all applicable taxes and ongoing financial obligations
• ✓
  Currency Risk Analysis: Assessment of SSP exposure and currency protection options
• ✓
  Political Risk Assessment: Analysis of political stability in property region
• ✓
  Exit Strategy Validation: Identification of potential future buyers or exit options

Expert Tip: In South Sudan, legal documentation alone is insufficient for proper due diligence. A multi-layered approach that combines official documentation, local knowledge, and physical inspection is essential. Consider hiring a qualified South Sudanese attorney who understands both statutory law and customary land practices. Additionally, engage directly with local community leaders as part of your due diligence process, as they can provide critical information about historical land claims that may not appear in official records. Document verification should include physical inspection of original documents with appropriate government stamps and seals, as forgeries are not uncommon.

Offer and Negotiation

1. Initial Expression of Interest: Typically verbal through intermediary
2. Preliminary Agreement: Written non-binding letter of intent
3. Price Negotiation: Extended process, often requiring multiple meetings
4. Terms Discussion: Payment structure, timelines, conditions, responsibilities
5. Memorandum of Understanding: Preliminary agreement outlining key terms

Unlike North American markets, property transactions in South Sudan involve extensive relationship building before formal negotiations begin. Trust-building is considered a prerequisite to serious price discussions. Initial price quotes are often significantly inflated, with the expectation of substantial negotiation. Foreign buyers should be prepared for a lengthy negotiation process that may involve community elders, family members, and other stakeholders beyond the primary seller.

Legal Transfer Process

1. Engage Legal Representation: South Sudanese attorney experienced in property law
2. Draft Purchase/Lease Agreement:
   • Detailed property description and boundaries
   • Clear payment terms and schedule
   • Specific representations and warranties
   • Dispute resolution mechanisms
   • Conditions precedent to completion
3. Government Approvals:
   • Local county land office verification
   • State ministry of lands approval
   • National Ministry of Lands registration
   • Investment Authority approval for foreign investors
4. Community Consultations:
   • Formal meetings with community leaders (if community land)
   • Documentation of community support
   • Resolution of any competing claims
5. Payment Process:
   • Initial deposit in escrow account
   • Staged payments tied to approval milestones
   • Final payment upon document transfer
6. Document Registration:
   • Recording of transaction in relevant land registries
   • Issuance of lease certificates or title documents
   • Payment of stamp duties and registration fees
7. Physical Handover:
   • Formal property inspection and documentation
   • Transfer of keys and access controls
   • Introduction to neighboring property owners

The timeframe from initial agreement to completion typically ranges from 3-9 months for straightforward transactions, though it can extend significantly longer for properties with complicated ownership histories or in areas with competing jurisdictional claims. Foreign investors should maintain flexibility in timelines and build appropriate contingencies into project planning.

Transaction Costs

Budget for these typical transaction expenses:

• Registration Fees:
  • 2-4% of transaction value depending on property type
  • Payable to Ministry of Lands at national and state levels
  • Additional county-level fees may apply
• Legal Fees: 3-5% for specialized international transaction attorney
• Survey Costs: $1,000-3,000 for professional boundary survey
• Administrative Fees: $500-2,000 for various government approvals
• Investment License Fee: $200-1,000 based on investment size
• Tax Clearance Certificate: Administrative fee plus any outstanding taxes
• Currency Transfer Costs: 1-3% for international money transfers
• Facilitation Expenses: Variable depending on complexity

Total transaction costs for foreign investors typically range from 8-15% of the purchase price, with higher percentages for smaller transactions due to fixed administrative costs. These expenses should be factored into your overall investment calculations, along with appropriate contingencies for unexpected costs that frequently arise during the process.

Note that “facilitation payments” may be requested during various stages of the transaction process. Foreign investors should establish clear policies regarding such requests and work through reputable legal representatives to navigate these challenges while maintaining compliance with both local law and their home country’s anti-corruption regulations.

Expert Tip: For transactions in South Sudan, consider using a staged payment structure tied to specific milestones rather than large upfront payments. Include robust verification mechanisms at each stage and maintain a significant final payment until all documentation is properly registered and physical possession is secured. When possible, use trusted third-party escrow services based in neighboring countries (Kenya or Uganda) with clear release conditions. Additionally, document every meeting, payment, and agreement with photographs, receipts, and signed minutes to create a comprehensive transaction record.

Administrative Tasks

• ✓
  Tax Registration: Register with national and state tax authorities for property tax
• ✓
  Utility Transfers: Establish new accounts for available utilities (often limited)
• ✓
  Local Authority Registration: Register with county administration and police
• ✓
  Insurance Arrangements: Secure property insurance (limited options available)
• ✓
  Security Services: Contract with reliable security provider
• ✓
  Community Relations: Formal introduction to community leaders
• ✓
  Investment Authority Updates: File property acquisition report with investment authority

Property Security & Maintenance

Property security and maintenance are significant concerns in South Sudan:

• Security Measures:
  • Perimeter security (walls, fencing, gates)
  • 24-hour guard service (typically 3-4 guards on rotation)
  • Backup communication systems
  • Emergency evacuation plan
  • Relationships with local police and security services
  • Security lighting and monitoring systems
• Infrastructure Management:
  • Generator maintenance and fuel management
  • Water supply systems (wells, filtration, storage)
  • Solar power systems as backup or primary power
  • Satellite or microwave internet connections
  • Waste management arrangements (limited municipal services)
• Staffing Requirements:
  • Property manager (essential for foreign-owned properties)
  • Security personnel (often through security companies)
  • Maintenance staff for regular upkeep
  • Generator technician/electrician on call
  • Administrative support for government interactions

The cost of property security and infrastructure maintenance is substantially higher than in developed markets, often reaching 15-25% of property value annually for properties maintained to international standards. Self-sufficiency in power, water, and other essential services is necessary due to limited public infrastructure.

Record Keeping

Maintain comprehensive records for legal protection and operational management:

• Property Documents:
  • All original purchase/lease documents with official stamps
  • Survey maps and boundary documentation
  • Government approvals and permits
  • Property photographs and condition reports
  • Construction and renovation documentation
• Financial Records:
  • All property-related expenses with receipts
  • Tax payment records and certificates
  • Salary payments to staff and contractors
  • Rental income and tenant deposits
  • Currency exchange transactions
  • Bank statements and transfer records
• Operational Documentation:
  • Security incident reports and resolutions
  • Maintenance logs and repair history
  • Staff employment contracts and documentation
  • Communications with authorities and officials
  • Community engagement activities
• Tenant Information:
  • Lease agreements with clear terms
  • Tenant identification and documentation
  • Property condition reports for each tenancy
  • Payment records and receipts
  • Correspondence regarding maintenance requests

Maintain duplicate records in both physical and digital formats, with copies stored in your home country as well as in South Sudan. Regular property inspections with photographic documentation are recommended to track conditions and demonstrate continuous management, which can be important for establishing ongoing rights in case of disputes.

Expert Tip: Foreign investors should develop a “property management constitution” – a comprehensive document that outlines operating procedures, security protocols, staff responsibilities, financial controls, and emergency procedures. This document becomes essential for consistent management, especially when different personnel are involved over time. Additionally, consider establishing a local advisory committee including respected community members who can provide guidance on local dynamics and help navigate community relationships, which are crucial for long-term property security.

South Sudan Tax Obligations

• Property Transfer Tax:
  • 5% of property value at time of purchase
  • Typically split between buyer and seller
  • Payable to Ministry of Finance within 30 days of transfer
• Annual Property Tax:
  • 0.5-2% of assessed property value
  • Rates vary by state and property classification
  • Payable to state revenue authority annually
  • Assessment methods inconsistent and often negotiable
• Business Profit Tax:
  • 10-25% on rental income (if operating through company)
  • Deductions allowed for operating expenses
  • Annual filing required with National Revenue Authority
  • Advance quarterly payments may be required
• Personal Income Tax on Rental Income:
  • Progressive rates from 10-20% for individuals
  • Limited deductions compared to business structures
  • Withholding mechanism for some institutional tenants
• Capital Gains Tax:
  • 10% on realized gains from property sales
  • Basis adjustment for documentable improvements
  • Limited inflation indexing available
  • Exemptions for reinvestment in certain cases
• Withholding Taxes:
  • 20% withholding on payments to non-residents
  • Applies to service fees, interest, dividends
  • May be reduced under limited tax treaties

Home Country Tax Obligations

South Sudan has very limited tax treaty networks, with no comprehensive tax treaties with the United States or Canada. This creates potential for double taxation on certain types of income, though foreign tax credits can mitigate some exposure. Consultation with tax professionals experienced in both jurisdictions is essential for optimizing tax positions.

Tax Planning Strategies

• Entity Structure: Consider jurisdictional advantages of different holding structures
• Expense Documentation: Maintain meticulous records of all allowable expenses
• Foreign Tax Credit Planning: Coordinate timing of income recognition and tax payments
• Investment Incentives: Explore available tax exemptions for qualifying development projects
• Transfer Pricing: Ensure arm’s length pricing for related party transactions
• Treaty Shopping: Consider intermediate holding jurisdictions with favorable treaty networks
• Repatriation Strategies: Plan timing and structure of profit repatriation
• Capital Investment Timing: Coordinate improvements to maximize deductibility

South Sudan’s tax system remains in development, with significant administrative discretion and evolving regulations. Regular consultation with local tax advisors is essential to stay current with requirements and practices. The country’s tax administration capacity is limited, but enforcement can be unpredictable and potentially disruptive to business operations.

Foreign investors often face enhanced scrutiny during tax audits, so maintaining comprehensive documentation and building relationships with tax authorities can help navigate these challenges. Consider engaging a reputable local accounting firm to handle ongoing tax compliance and reporting obligations.

Expert Tip: In South Sudan’s developing tax environment, obtaining a written tax ruling or clarification letter for your specific investment structure can provide valuable protection against retrospective policy changes. When structuring rental agreements with international organizations or diplomatic missions, explore arrangements where the tenant handles local tax obligations directly, as they often have established relationships with tax authorities and may enjoy certain immunities or simplified procedures. Additionally, consider establishing a dedicated compliance calendar with reminders well in advance of deadlines, as penalties for late filing can be severe and discretionary.

Selecting a Property Manager

Evaluate potential property managers using these criteria:

• Experience with Foreign Investors:
  • Track record managing properties for absentee owners
  • Systems for international communication
  • Understanding of expatriate tenant expectations
  • Experience with international payment processing
• Security Expertise:
  • Established security protocols and contingency plans
  • Relationships with reputable security providers
  • Experience managing crisis situations
  • Regular security reporting procedures
• Local Connections:
  • Established government relationships at multiple levels
  • Community acceptance and understanding
  • Access to reliable service providers and contractors
  • Tenant sourcing networks among international organizations
• Infrastructure Management:
  • Experience operating backup power systems
  • Water supply management expertise
  • Telecommunications and internet solutions
  • Preventative maintenance programs
• Financial Systems:
  • Transparent accounting and reporting
  • International banking capabilities
  • Currency management expertise
  • Detailed documentation practices

Management Agreement Essentials

Ensure your property management contract includes these key elements:

• Clearly Defined Responsibilities: Detailed scope of services and deliverables
• Security Protocol Requirements: Specific security standards and procedures
• Reporting Structure: Regular reporting format, frequency, and content requirements
• Financial Controls: Transparent handling of funds with documentation requirements
• Staff Management: Hiring, supervision, and liability provisions
• Emergency Protocols: Defined procedures for various emergency scenarios
• Maintenance Standards: Clear expectations for property upkeep
• Tenant Screening Process: Criteria and approval mechanisms
• Communications Requirements: Response times and communication channels
• Termination Provisions: Clear conditions and process for ending the relationship
• Dispute Resolution Mechanism: Mediation or arbitration procedures
• Compliance Guarantees: Assurances of regulatory compliance

Request references from current clients, particularly other foreign investors, before signing with a property management company. Additionally, consider a probationary period with defined performance metrics before committing to a long-term management arrangement.

Expert Tip: In South Sudan’s challenging operating environment, consider a hybrid management approach where you engage both a professional management company for administrative functions and a trusted local representative who serves as your eyes and ears on the ground. This dual structure provides important checks and balances while ensuring both professional standards and local contextual understanding. Additionally, plan to visit your property at least annually to maintain relationships and assess management performance firsthand. For properties in more remote areas, consider management arrangements that include regular photo/video documentation of property condition.

Exit Options

Sale Process

When selling your South Sudan property:

1. Pre-Sale Preparation:
   • Resolve any outstanding legal issues or disputes
   • Complete essential repairs and improvements
   • Update all documentation and approvals
   • Prepare comprehensive asset documentation package
   • Optimize tenant situation (maximize occupancy)
2. Marketing Strategy:
   • Direct outreach to potential institutional buyers
   • Network with expatriate community and organizations
   • Engage with regional property networks
   • Work through local partners for domestic market
   • Consider international property platforms
3. Transaction Structure:
   • Develop appropriate legal framework for transfer
   • Structure currency aspects of transaction
   • Consider staged payment options if necessary
   • Prepare for extended due diligence processes
   • Develop clear handover procedures
4. Government Processes:
   • Navigate transfer approval requirements
   • Secure tax clearance certificates
   • Arrange for title transfer documentation
   • Address any community approvals needed
   • Manage investment authority requirements
5. Fund Repatriation:
   • Structure for optimal currency conversion
   • Comply with Central Bank requirements
   • Provide documentation of original investment
   • Consider phased repatriation if advantageous
   • Coordinate with tax planning in home country

The South Sudan property sale process typically takes 6-24 months depending on property type, location, and market conditions. The buyer pool is significantly more limited than in developed markets, making pre-marketing preparation and networking particularly important for successful exits.

Market Exit Timing Considerations

Several factors should influence your exit timing decision:

• Political Stability Cycles: Elections, peace processes, and political transitions create windows of relative stability that may offer better exit conditions
• Economic Development Projects: Major infrastructure or development initiatives near your property can significantly enhance value and liquidity
• International Organization Presence: Expansion or contraction of UN, NGO, or diplomatic missions dramatically affects demand for quality properties
• Oil Industry Activity: As the dominant economic driver, oil production and price cycles substantially impact the overall economy and property market
• Regional Relations: South Sudan’s relationships with neighboring countries affect border activity, trade, and investment flows
• Security Situation: Localized or national security improvements often create windows for more favorable exits
• Currency Factors: SSP exchange rate trends and transfer regulations can significantly impact realized returns
• Infrastructure Improvements: Completion of major power, water, or transport projects can enhance property values

Successful investors in South Sudan maintain flexibility in their exit timelines, prepared to accelerate or delay exit based on changing conditions. Maintaining strong networks with potential buyer communities (international organizations, regional investors, diplomatic missions) provides valuable market intelligence and potential direct sales channels when exit opportunities emerge.

Expert Tip: Consider structuring a pre-arranged exit strategy with your local partners at the time of initial investment. This might include first right of refusal provisions, call/put options at predetermined valuation formulas, or gradual equity transfer mechanisms. Such arrangements can provide valuable exit flexibility in a market where buyers are limited and transaction processes can be unpredictable. Additionally, maintain relationships with regional investors in Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia who may have strategic reasons to enter the South Sudan market when your exit timeline approaches.