(RUMBEK) – The Bank of South Sudan has officially opened the new Rumbek Currency Centre, a major step in the country’s effort to extend financial services and strengthen its economic infrastructure. What began as a vision in 2013 has now become a modern, fully operational banking facility serving the people of Lakes State and beyond.
The project was first launched when President Salva Kiir Mayardit laid its foundation stone, demonstrating the government’s commitment to expanding banking services across the country. At that time, Hon. Koryom Mayiik, then Governor of the Bank, and Dr. Addis Ababa Othow, current Governor of the Central Bank were key figures behind the project, with Hon. Rita Nyankir also playing a central role in the Bank’s leadership.
Initially awarded to a Chinese construction company, the project faced delays due to electrical and water system problems. To resolve these challenges, the Bank reassigned the work to Dreams Engineering Company, a South Sudanese contractor, which completed the remaining works and upgraded the facility to modern standards.
Last week, Dr. Addis Ababa Othow, now Governor of the Bank of South Sudan, and Rita Nyankir, now Deputy Governor, returned to Rumbek to officially inaugurate the completed facility. Their participation at both the start and conclusion of the project symbolised a story of continuity, institutional resilience, and visionary leadership.
The Rumbek Currency Centre is designed to enhance financial decentralisation and promote inclusion by bringing essential banking services closer to local communities. It features a three storey main building with spacious offices, conference rooms, dining halls, a clinic and kitchens. The lower level houses secure currency vaults built to international safety standards, while the compound includes wide parking spaces, paved access roads, and three gated entrances fitted with modern lighting and security systems.
The western wing of the facility contains a powerhouse equipped with high capacity generators ensuring stable electricity supply. The building’s rooftop has also been finished with a modern architectural design, giving it a distinct landmark appearance in the town.
The total construction and rehabilitation costs were managed locally although specific figures were not disclosed. Similar large scale projects by the Bank typically cost tens of billions of South Sudanese Pounds depending on structural and equipment installations.
| Facility Feature | Description / Function |
|---|---|
| Main Building | Three floors with offices, meeting rooms, and service facilities |
| Currency Vaults | Located in basement, built to high security standards |
| Security Systems | Three gates, full perimeter fencing, night lighting |
| Power Supply | Standby generators providing stable electricity |
| Additional Facilities | Clinic, kitchens, dining halls, and staff parking |
Governor Dr. Addis Ababa Othow Akondit praised the guidance of President Salva Kiir Mayardit and the teamwork of Bank staff in bringing the project to completion. He described the Rumbek Centre as a symbol of national progress and a step towards achieving a stronger, more decentralised financial system.
Under Dr. Addis’s leadership, the Bank has accelerated expansion in line with the Bank of South Sudan Act 2011 (amended 2023). The Bank now operates in Wau, Malakal, Nimule, Yei and Aweil, with ongoing construction of staff quarters in Kuajok and a new main branch in Juba. Land has also been secured in Bentiu, Panriang and Yambio for future development.
In 2024, President Kiir inaugurated the Bank’s 12 floor headquarters building in Juba, a project that marked a new era in financial management and institutional capacity. The Rumbek Currency Centre adds to this progress, signalling a continued effort to improve financial access, strengthen monetary stability and support South Sudan’s growing economy.
