(JUBA) – South Sudan’s new electronic tax collection system has generated SSP 100 billion (approximately USD 21.7 million) within just two weeks of its launch, according to the National Revenue Authority (NRA). The system, introduced to modernise revenue collection, is already showing promising results. However, authorities say full success is being hindered by resistance from several government institutions.
Speaking in Juba over the weekend, NRA Deputy Board Chairperson, Eng. Tejwok Simon Ajak, confirmed the figures and attributed the lower than expected performance to non-compliance by some key agencies. He highlighted the Civil Aviation Authority as one of the institutions reluctant to adopt the new e-tax platform, officially known as the Electronic Board Service.
Ajak said, “This figure could have been more than SSP 100 billion had it not been because other government agencies were resisting e-service efforts.”
The e-tax system was designed to improve transparency and increase government revenues by reducing leakages and manual errors. It also allows for real-time tracking of payments, helping the government to manage and forecast public finances more effectively.
Mayickit Yai Ackol, an economist from the Bank of South Sudan, praised the initiative, stating that the early performance indicates significant potential.
“This is a good initiative. If SSP 100 billion can be raised in just two weeks, then the figure could double or even triple in a full month, depending on market conditions,” she noted.
South Sudan, with a population of over 12 million, has faced numerous economic setbacks since gaining independence in 2011. The outbreak of civil war in 2013 and years of instability have delayed many national reforms, including public financial management. The introduction of an electronic tax system is seen as a step forward in strengthening state institutions and increasing domestic revenues.
The NRA’s new board was officially welcomed during the weekend event, where calls were made for stronger cooperation across government departments to ensure the success of the reform.
The following table provides a simple illustration of the tax revenue collected so far:
| Period | Revenue Collected | Approx. Value in USD |
|---|---|---|
| First 2 weeks | SSP 100 billion | USD 21.7 million |
| Projected month-end (est.) | SSP 200–300 billion | USD 43.5–65.2 million |
Although the resistance from some agencies remains a challenge, officials are optimistic that with continued awareness and enforcement, full adoption of the e-service system will be achieved.