Jubba (Sunatimes) The newly-born government of South Sudan has barred people of Somali origin searching for new business opportunities in the country from entering its territory by road.

According to report published on Wednesday by a Kenyan newspaper, the Daily Nation, hundreds of traders of Somali origin have been barred from entering South Sudan and are currently camping at Nadapal border point, along the country’s common border with Kenya.

A senior Kenya Revenue Authority official, who sought anonymity because he is not authorised to speak to the press, said that the rules were introduced two weeks ago due to what is believed to be security reasons, says the paper.

The KRA officer also said the new rules barring people of Somali origin from entering South Sudan might create a potential diplomatic and trade crisis with its neighbours.

Kenyan traders, including those of Somali origin, have flocked to South Sudan in search of new business opportunities.

According to the Daily Nation, the Kenyan officials say the new rules will interfere with the anticipated boom in trade between Kenya and South Sudan since most of South Sudan receives its essential commodities including cereals and vegetables from Kenyan side of the border.

By Asho Abdulle