Juba — Construction industry in African's youngest nation South Sudan may soon receive a boost as steeling manufacturing factory is set to launch operations in Juba early next year.

Edward International Company Ltd started operations in January 2012 and now it has established a factory across "Koru Ramula" about 10 km along Juba Kajo keji road. The factory besides production of steel products such as iron sheets and bars will also be producing electric cables, paints, water pipes, and plastic water tanks.

"We will be producing all types of different building materials locally here. Since we will be producing locally, we will have competitive price", said Kirolos Edward Assad, the General Manager.

South Sudan after decades of civil war is witnessing a rapid development drive with almost all the construction materials imported. Starting with paint production in February 2013, the factory will be employing over three thousand South Sudanese in the plant.

Meanwhile the Undersecretary of Commerce, Industry and Investment Mr Simon Nyany Anei has urged more investors to come and invest in the Republic of South Sudan. "We need more industries for the development of South Sudan", he appealed.