(JUBA) – A growing dispute between the Central Equatoria State Government and the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) has emerged after the latter launched a city wide taxpayer registration campaign in Juba, dividing the capital into ten administrative zones.
The SSRA’s initiative, which began on 1 July 2025, aims to register all businesses, service providers and self employed individuals through a door to door campaign. According to SSRA officials, the move is part of broader efforts to improve tax compliance, boost domestic revenue collection and reduce South Sudan’s reliance on oil exports and foreign aid.
However, during a weekly Council of Ministers meeting chaired by Governor Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel on Thursday, the Central Equatoria State Government officially rejected the plan. State officials criticised the SSRA’s approach as unilateral and said it lacked consultation with local and municipal authorities.
Acting Minister of Information and Communication Hon. Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado told reporters after the meeting that the State Cabinet had called on the SSRA to immediately revoke its decision, saying it contravenes Article 49 of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan (2011), as amended.
“The Council resolved to reject this unilateral decision and urges the South Sudan Revenue Authority to revoke it. Such actions violate Article 49, which calls for the respect of intergovernmental linkages,” said Hon. Aligo.
He added that the state government is not against taxpayer registration, but believes that decisions of this magnitude must involve joint planning between the SSRA, the State Government and the Juba City Council.
The SSRA, however, maintains that the process is legal, free of charge, and in the public interest. Commissioner General Simon Akuei Deng said the campaign is essential for building a complete taxpayer register, improving service delivery, and ensuring that all businesses contribute fairly to national development.
In a recent statement published on its portal, the SSRA urged all stakeholders to treat the registration as a civic duty.
“This process is not just a legal obligation, but a necessary step toward national development and better public services for all citizens,” the statement read.
Below is the breakdown of Juba’s 10 zones under the SSRA’s new tax registration plan:
| Zone | Areas Covered |
|---|---|
| 1 | Juba Town, Hai Cinema, Hai Malakal, Malakia, Hai Commercial,
Kator, Konyokonyo, Gabat, Hai Amarat, Nimira Talata |
| 2 | Giada, Suk Sita, Atalabara, Lologo, Khor Williang |
| 3 | Jebel Area, Rock City, Nyakuron, Mauna, Checkpoint |
| 4 | Gumbo-Sherikat |
| 5 | Munuki Area |
| 6 | Thongpiny Area |
| 7 | Gudele Area |
| 8 | Mia Saba, Hai Referendum, Eden, New Site |
| 9 | UN Agencies and Embassies |
| 10 | Gurei, Jebel Dinka, Luri |
SSRA officials have cautioned that no fees should be charged during registration. All staff involved are required to carry identification cards marked with the SSRA logo. Anyone asking for money is to be reported to the authorities.
Objectives of the SSRA Tax Registration Drive in July 2025
| Objective | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Accurate Taxpayer Register | To have an updated list of all businesses in Juba |
| Better Compliance Monitoring | To ensure businesses are paying taxes fairly |
| Stronger Planning | To support government decision making with accurate data |
| Improved Services | To use tax revenues to fund roads, schools, and health care |
| Fairer Tax System | To treat all taxpayers equally |
Commissioner General Akuei emphasised that registration applies to both formal and informal sectors. “Every business operator has a duty to cooperate and give correct information. This is how we build a better economy,” he said.
Meanwhile, during the same cabinet meeting, the Central Equatoria State Government reviewed a funding request from the State Ministry of Roads and Bridges. The ministry sought USD 8.3 million for the completion of the Terekeka–Tindilo–Tali road.
The Cabinet approved USD 220,594 (equivalent to approximately 1,014,732,400 SSP) for completing two bridges along the route, with the rest to be included in the upcoming 2025–2026 budget.
The Council also discussed a proposed name change for the ministry to become the “State Ministry of Transport, Roads and Bridges.” However, the decision was deferred pending further consultation.
On the security front, the Cabinet condemned the recent rape of a young girl in Shirikat and confirmed that a crackdown on gang activity is underway in parts of Juba. Several suspects linked to youth gangs have been arrested and are in police custody pending investigation.
Hon. Aligo assured the public that anyone found innocent would be released, while those found guilty would face prosecution according to the law.
