(JUBA) – South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services, Ateny Wek Ateny, has approved the installation of two new telecommunications antennas aimed at improving connectivity and supporting economic activity in Jonglei State.
The approval was granted on Friday after the Minister received a briefing from the Governor of Jonglei State on the current state of communication services in the region. The report outlined major gaps in network coverage that have affected security coordination, public service delivery and local business operations.
According to the Minister, one of the telecommunications towers will be installed in North Ayod, an area recognised as the birthplace of William Nyuon Beny, one of the founding figures of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement. The second tower will be located in Ayod South, associated with the late spiritual leader Makuac Tut. Both locations are in Jonglei State and have long faced limited access to reliable mobile and data services.
Governor of Jonglei State told the Minister that weak communication infrastructure has made it difficult for state authorities to respond effectively to security incidents. He said this has also slowed development efforts and discouraged private investment, particularly in trade, transport and basic services.
From a business perspective, improved telecommunications infrastructure is expected to support local markets, enable mobile money services and improve access to information for traders and small businesses. Better connectivity is also likely to reduce operational risks for companies working in Jonglei, where poor communication has increased costs and limited expansion.
The ICT Ministry views the approval as part of a broader effort to expand digital infrastructure across underserved regions of South Sudan. Officials say improved communication is essential for economic growth, service delivery and integration of rural economies into national markets.
In a related development, Minister Ateny Wek Ateny also briefed President Salva Kiir Mayardit in Juba on the progress and challenges facing the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services and its parastatal institutions.
The meeting focused on identifying practical solutions to address infrastructure gaps, funding constraints and operational challenges within the ICT and postal services sectors. The Minister said strengthening these sectors is critical for supporting government operations and creating an enabling environment for private sector growth.
The expansion of telecommunications infrastructure in Jonglei is expected to contribute to improved security coordination and create new opportunities for digital services, trade and investment in one of South Sudan’s largest states.
Planned telecommunications installations
| Location | County Area | Expected impact |
|---|---|---|
| North Ayod | Jonglei State | Improved mobile coverage and security coordination |
| Ayod South | Jonglei State | Better access to communication and digital services |
Business analysts say sustained investment in telecom infrastructure remains a key driver for economic development in South Sudan, particularly in states with limited connectivity such as Jonglei.