Hotel Star Ratings Arrive in South Sudan
Juba’s Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism has introduced a formal one-to-five-star rating for hotels, lodges and guest houses. Officials say the measure, launched this week, mirrors the East African Community framework and is designed to lift hospitality quality nationwide.
Aligning with East African Community Benchmarks
Minister Denay Jock Chagor noted that common criteria will help South Sudanese establishments compete regionally while assuring travellers of predictable standards. He emphasised that the country can only thrive in tourism by “speaking the same language of quality” as its neighbours (Minister Chagor).
Protecting Guests and Workers
Authorities warn that facilities failing to meet minimum health, safety and service thresholds will lose the right to market themselves as hotels or guest houses. “You cannot be giving unqualified services… that’s a crime,” the minister told operators, insisting citizen safety remains paramount (Minister Chagor).
Industry Voices Welcome Reform
Frederick Jack Omonde from the East African Community Affairs team believes the exercise will “set apart” compliant venues and attract investment. He singled out Radisson Blu’s early commitment as proof that international brands view the classification as credible and commercially advantageous (Omonde).
Economic Upside for Local Communities
Tourism officials predict that clearer branding, safer rooms and greener practices will lengthen visitor stays and increase domestic hiring. Hospitality lecturers at the University of Juba say a transparent star system could also drive enrolment in professional training, creating a skilled workforce for a growing sector.
Next Steps for Implementation
Inspectors are now mapping facilities nationwide, after which qualifying certificates and star plaques will be issued. The ministry aims to review compliance annually, a rhythm officials argue will keep the new standards dynamic and aligned with evolving regional policies.