(JUBA) – The Bank of South Sudan convened a one day workshop on 28 August 2025 to address the country’s ongoing economic challenges, particularly the liquidity crisis, where over 80 percent of citizens remain outside the formal financial system.
The Policy Dissemination Workshop on Financial Inclusion and Market Development brought together public and private sector stakeholders, economists, bankers, academics, and development partners at the Bank’s headquarters.
The workshop featured presentations of two key research papers. Dr. James Alic Garang presented “Impediments to the Evolution of Mobile Money and Financial Inclusion in South Sudan,” while Jacqueline Nyibol Ajongo and Prof. Samson Taban Joseph presented “Financial Inclusion and Market Development in South Sudan.”
The studies highlighted structural and policy barriers hindering mobile money growth and offered recommendations to strengthen financial inclusion and develop local financial markets.
Bank of South Sudan Governor Dr. Othow emphasised the need to broaden access to banking and digital financial services. He stated that South Sudan’s heavy reliance on cash creates vulnerabilities and urged a coordinated shift to digital platforms.
“Financial inclusion is not just a statistic. It is a must. It is a barrier that we need to break,” Dr. Othow said. “Without access to savings, credit, finance, or payment systems, citizens cannot fully participate in economic activities. Providing digital platforms allows everyone, whether in urban centres or remote areas, to access financial services, from loans to school fees payments, through banks or mobile phones.”
Dr. Othow reiterated the government’s commitment to digital transformation as a strategic response to the country’s liquidity challenges.
“We are the only country in the region still heavily reliant on cash, which carries many risks. Digital payments and financial platforms are essential to addressing these challenges.”
He stressed that the digital finance transition requires collective effort.
“Introducing a digital transformation journey is not a one man initiative. It requires a coordinated approach across the financial sector and all stakeholders. That is why your participation today is crucial.”
Workshop Uncovers Barriers to Financial Markets
| Indicator/Focus Area | Current Status | Target/Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Population outside formal financial system | 80% | Reduce by 30% in 5 years |
| Mobile money adoption | Low, hindered by policy and structural barriers | Expand nationwide digital access |
| Cash reliance | High | Transition to digital payments for major transactions |
| Stakeholder engagement | Bank, private sector, academics, development partners | Collaborative digital finance implementation |
The workshop highlighted that expanding access to digital finance and mobile money is a key priority for South Sudan’s economic development, offering a pathway to resilience, liquidity stability, and inclusion for all citizens.
