(NAIROBI, KENYA) – The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) has congratulated Urban South Group for winning first runner up in the Small and Medium Enterprise category at the East African Community (EAC) Regional Quality Awards held in Nairobi.
The regional event, which celebrates innovation and quality among East African producers, saw Urban South Group recognised for its commitment to high production standards and excellence in product delivery. The company’s recognition follows its earlier success at the South Sudan National Quality Awards, which were hosted by the SSNBS earlier this year in Juba.
The award marks a significant milestone for South Sudan’s private sector, and signals growing regional competitiveness and improved confidence in locally made products. The SSNBS said the recognition of Urban South Group demonstrates how South Sudanese enterprises can compete effectively across East Africa when quality standards are prioritised.
A statement from the Bureau described the achievement as a “proud moment” for South Sudan, reflecting the country’s ongoing efforts to raise manufacturing standards, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and promote economic diversification.
The EAC Regional Quality Awards bring together national winners from member states including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. Winners are selected based on product quality, innovation, customer satisfaction, and adherence to regional standards.
According to the SSNBS, South Sudan’s participation in regional quality competitions is helping local producers gain visibility and improve access to broader markets within the East African Community.
| Category | Award | Recipient | Country | Organiser |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SME Category | First Runner-up | Urban South Group | South Sudan | East African Community (EAC) |
| National Host | – | South Sudan National Bureau of Standards | South Sudan | SSNBS |
| Regional Event Venue | – | – | Kenya | EAC Secretariat |
The Bureau reaffirmed its commitment to supporting quality assurance programmes and providing capacity building opportunities for local industries. It also encouraged other South Sudanese enterprises to participate in future awards as part of efforts to promote the country’s industrial growth and competitiveness.
The recognition of Urban South Group, industry observers say, not only highlights the growing capacity of South Sudan’s manufacturing sector but also strengthens the country’s image as a serious player in regional trade and quality development.
Urban South Group’s products include Nilotica shea butter, pure liquid honey, and sesame seeds and oil, which have become increasingly popular in local and regional markets. In March 2025, the company’s Pure Liquid Honey was named South Sudan’s Product of the Year at the National Quality Awards, earning praise for its purity, packaging, and contribution to the country’s agricultural value chain.
The recognition of Urban South Group, industry observers say, not only highlights the growing capacity of South Sudan’s manufacturing sector but also strengthens the country’s image as a serious player in regional trade and quality development.