(JUBA) – The new Minister of Information, Communication and Technology, Ateny Wek Ateny, has announced a nine pillar plan focused on increasing internet penetration across South Sudan, signalling a renewed push to expand digital infrastructure and communication services.
The announcement was made on 6 November 2025 at a welcoming ceremony attended by senior government officials, media bodies and sector regulators. The plan, presented as the central priority for his term, is expected to guide investment, policy direction and cooperation in the ICT sector.
Outgoing Minister Michael Makuei Lueth, who now serves as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, expressed his support for his successor. He said he would continue working with the Ministry to strengthen legal frameworks needed for policy enforcement and investment confidence. Makuei was praised by sector stakeholders for laws passed during his time in office, which are expected to provide stability for future ICT growth.
Presidential Advisor on National Security, Tut Gatluak Manime, attended as guest of honour and used the occasion to urge the Ministry to prepare early for the upcoming national elections. He said the ICT sector will play a central role in voter education and public communication, and called for broad planning to ensure nationwide outreach.
The president of the South Sudan Union of Journalists, Oyet Patrick, commended the outgoing Minister for his work on media and information legislation. He encouraged the new Minister to apply existing laws to improve revenue generation for the Ministry and help raise national income through ICT services.
Two major ICT projects remain under development and are seen as essential for the country’s digital future. These include the national data centre, which will support government digital services, and the World Bank supported fibre optic connection linking South Sudan to Kenya. The cable project is expected to reduce the cost of internet services and improve reliability once completed.
The Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology is expected to release more details of the nine pillar plan in the coming weeks, with stakeholders calling for clear timelines and strong coordination across government institutions and private operators.
