Kennedy Kenyi Lodiong

Championing the Private Sector

Today, Kennedy is a national and regional voice for industry.

As Secretary General of the Association of South Sudan Manufacturers (ASSM) since 2022, he spearheads initiatives that strengthen the manufacturing sector and improve the overall business environment.

He also serves as Deputy Chairman of the East African Business Council (EABC), representing South Sudan’s private sector interests at the regional level. In these executive positions, he leads advocacy for policy reforms, facilitates public–private partnerships, and represents industry interests in high-level forums. His leadership style blends strategic vision with operational excellence – ensuring policies aren’t just crafted, but effectively executed for real-world impact.

Contributions

Secretary General, The Association of South Sudan Manufacturers (2022–Present):

As the chief executive of South Sudan’s national manufacturers association, he is entrusted with advancing the interests of an entire industry. His leadership here underscores his effectiveness in organizational governance and policy advocacy on a national scale.

Deputy Chairman, East African Business Council (2024–Present):

Elected to help steer the premier regional business body, Kennedy represents South Sudan’s private sector at the East African level. His role involves advocating for regional integration and a more conducive business environment across EAC member states – a recognition of his authority in policy and business matters.

Kennedy’s credibility is evident through his leadership roles and the trust placed in him by diverse organisations. His professional appointments and contributions speak to his reputation as a strategic leader and advisor:

National Consultant, ITC MARKUP II Program (2024):

Selected by the International Trade Centre for a high-profile export development project, Kennedy provided expertise in quality management and value chain development. His involvement signals trust from an international agency in his technical and strategic skills.

Member, National Investment Strategy Taskforce (2023):

Kennedy was appointed as a private sector representative in formulating South Sudan’s national investment and export strategy. His input helped shape policies to attract investment, highlighting the esteem in which he is held by both government and industry peers.

Masterclass Trainer, Orange Corners South Sudan (2024):

Invited to deliver masterclasses for the Orange Corners entrepreneurship program, Kennedy has mentored young entrepreneurs and startups. His participation reflects his thought leadership and commitment to developing the next generation of business leaders.

Consultant on NTBs for FAO & ASSM (2024):

Engaged by the Food and Agriculture Organisation in collaboration with ASSM, he led a national consultancy on Non-Tariff and Technical Barriers to Trade. This work contributed to actionable recommendations for easing trade barriers, reinforcing his status as a knowledgeable advisor on trade policy.

Vision for Impact

"Looking ahead, I aim to operate at the intersection of business, policy, and development. My focus is on strengthening sector competitiveness, building resilient value chains (particularly in agriculture and manufacturing) and improving investment readiness across South Sudan and East Africa. I am deeply committed to sustainable economic growth and to translating sound strategy and good governance into tangible improvements in people’s lives. I believe that stronger institutions and well-designed policies are key to unlocking the region’s full economic potential."