(JUBA) – The Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) has introduced new salary processing tariffs for civil servants as part of a broader policy to promote digital payments and reduce reliance on cash in the economy. The charges, which range from SSP 500 to SSP 2,000 (equivalent to $0.11 to $0.44), were outlined in a circular issued by the central bank on 4 July 2025.
These new fees are based on recommendations by a joint committee formed in June to propose affordable digital payment tariffs. The aim is to encourage public employees to open bank accounts and access their salaries through formal financial channels, including banks and mobile money services.
The processing charges vary across institutions. According to the BoSS circular:
| Institution | Charge (SSP) | Charge (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix Commercial Bank | 2,000 | $0.44 |
| Eden Commercial Bank | 1,500 | $0.33 |
| Nile Commercial Bank | 1,000 | $0.22 |
| African National Bank | 1,000 | $0.22 |
| Horizon Bank | 500 | $0.11 |
| Equity Bank South Sudan | 500 | $0.11 |
| Afriland First Bank | 0.5% of amount | – |
| Commercial Bank of Ethiopia | 0.3% of amount | – |
| MTN Fintech (Momo) | 2% of amount | – |
| Digitel Digicash Service | 1,000 | $0.22 |
This tariff structure is part of a wider plan by the South Sudanese government to limit cash usage, reduce the cost of currency printing, and improve transparency. Authorities hope to tackle corruption, improve salary access for civil servants and restore trust in the banking system by encouraging digital transactions.
The government’s digital finance drive began last year when BoSS placed a cash withdrawal limit of SSP 10 million (approximately $2,206) for both individuals and institutions. Withdrawals exceeding that amount must be processed through banks or mobile money operators. However, this cap was lifted in December 2024 due to a worsening liquidity crisis, with banks being encouraged to offer interest on savings to discourage cash hoarding.
Despite the policy reversal, the central bank insists that a digital payment culture is still necessary for economic stability. “The public is encouraged to embrace electronic platforms, including mobile money, credit and debit cards, which offer convenience and create a personal credit history,” BoSS stated.
The digital salary payment reform also comes in response to long-standing complaints of unpaid wages. Since 2015, the government has faced criticism over delayed salary disbursements, some of which resulted in legal actions, including lawsuits by foreign nationals. Public mistrust in banks has increased, contributing to widespread cash hoarding.
A key step in this reform was the 12 June 2025 meeting chaired by BoSS Governor Addis Ababa Othow and his deputy Samuel Yanga Mikaya. Attended by telecommunications operators and the National Communication Authority, the meeting focused on integrating mobile money systems with commercial banks and introducing affordable digital salary options.
The drive towards electronic payments is also a response to South Sudan’s economic struggles. Over-reliance on oil exports has created large public debts and left the national budget vulnerable. The economy was further weakened when war in Sudan disrupted oil exports for over a year by damaging the main pipeline.
According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), South Sudan’s economy is expected to recover gradually. Oil exports resumed in April 2025, and while real GDP contracted during the 2024/25 financial year, modest recovery is projected in 2025/26. The IMF says this rebound depends on continued security improvements and political stability.
Key Policy Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 6 Sep 2024 | BoSS capped cash withdrawals at SSP 10 million |
| 4 Jul 2025 | BoSS released salary processing tariff circular |
| 12 Jun 2025 | Joint committee on digital salary reform convened |
| Dec 2024 | Withdrawal cap lifted to ease liquidity crisis |
| Apr 2025 | Oil exports resumed after pipeline repair |
For more updates on South Sudan’s financial reforms and digital economy transition, visit Jakony.com®.
