(JUBA) – South Sudan’s central bank has outlined key priorities for strengthening the country’s financial sector as it prepares for reforms planned for 2026, signalling a continued focus on institutional development, technology upgrades and skills building across the banking system.
The Steering Committee of the Strengthening South Sudan’s Financial Sector Project held its fourth quarter meeting in Juba on 16 December 2025. The session was chaired by the Acting Governor of the Bank of South Sudan, Samuel Yanga Mikaya, and brought together senior stakeholders from across the financial industry.
Discussions centred on major reform initiatives aimed at improving the stability and efficiency of the banking sector. Among the key items reviewed was progress toward establishing the South Sudan Institute of Banking and Finance, which is expected to play a central role in training professionals and building long term capacity in the financial system.
The committee also examined plans to upgrade the core banking system, an important step in improving service delivery, regulatory oversight and resilience within South Sudan’s largely cash based economy. Modern banking infrastructure is seen as essential to supporting business growth, trade and investment in the country.
Another priority discussed was the development of a GoAML Data Centre to support the Financial Intelligence Unit. The system is intended to strengthen the monitoring of financial transactions and enhance efforts to combat money laundering and other financial crimes, an area of growing importance as South Sudan seeks to build trust with regional and international partners.
Members reviewed the broader 2026 work plan, with emphasis on developing financial sector strategies and policies that align with national economic goals. Institutional strengthening, modernisation of infrastructure and staff capacity building were highlighted as core pillars of the reform agenda.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Financial Intelligence Unit, the South Sudan Bankers Association and the Chamber of Commerce, reflecting an effort to ensure coordination between regulators, commercial banks and the wider business community.
For South Sudan’s private sector, the discussions point to gradual improvements in the financial environment, which remains a key constraint to business expansion. A more skilled workforce, stronger oversight and improved banking systems could support greater access to finance for local enterprises and encourage formalisation of economic activity.
The 3SF Project continues to serve as a platform for coordinating reforms across the sector, with the central bank playing a leading role in guiding policy direction and implementation. As the country looks ahead to 2026, the focus remains on building a financial system capable of supporting economic stability, growth and inclusion.
Key reform priorities discussed
| Focus area | Objective |
|---|---|
| Banking and finance institute | Build skills and professional capacity |
| Core banking system upgrade | Improve efficiency and resilience |
| GoAML Data Centre | Strengthen financial oversight |
| Policy and strategy development | Support long term sector growth |
| Staff capacity building | Enhance institutional performance |
The Bank of South Sudan said continued engagement with industry stakeholders will be critical to turning reform plans into practical outcomes that benefit businesses and consumers across the country.
