(JUBA) – The new governor of the Bank of South Sudan, Yeni Samuel Costa, was formally received at the institution’s headquarters on Monday, where he pledged to strengthen currency confidence, improve digital payment systems and enforce strict compliance across the bank. His arrival was met with applause from staff members who gathered to welcome him back to the institution.
Hon Yeni, a career banker with thirty eight years of experience, replaces Dr Addis Ababa Othow as governor. He told staff that he returned to address key issues facing the central bank and said he intended to work closely with all departments as the new chapter begins.
He said restoring public trust in the South Sudanese Pound was essential. He added that management would investigate where local currency has been hoarded and would take steps to ensure the currency regains value in the market. He noted that greater use of digital payments, similar to systems widely used in the United States, would help improve efficiency and reduce pressure on physical cash.
The governor said he would fully comply with financial laws and regulations and warned staff to avoid political involvement within the bank. He said anyone who brought politics into the institution would be asked to leave. While he pledged cooperation, he also said clear penalties would apply for any breach of regulations. He described fairness and equal treatment of staff as central to the way the bank will operate, noting that employees are the bank’s main assets.
First Deputy Governor Samuel Yanga Mikaya thanked President Salva Kiir Mayardit for appointing Hon Yeni, saying the new governor had only been away on leave and was now returning to his duties. He briefed the governor on recent developments at the bank, including liquidity pressure affecting digital payment systems nationwide.
A representative of the Yeni family, Antonieta Benjamin, also thanked the president for the appointment. She spoke on behalf of the community from Raga and encouraged cooperation between staff and the new governor, saying both sides should support one another as the bank moves forward.
Board members, senior officials and family representatives attended the reception ceremony.
New Governor Vows to Address Liquidity Pressure
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Event | Yeni Samuel Costa officially welcomed as new governor of the Bank of South Sudan. |
| Location | Juba, South Sudan. |
| Replaces | Dr Addis Ababa Othow. |
| Governor’s Priorities | Restore trust in the South Sudanese Pound, address hoarding, promote digital payments, enforce compliance. |
| Key Warnings | Staff told to avoid politics and follow regulations. |
| Deputy Governor’s Briefing | Liquidity problems affecting digital payments. |
| Family Representative Message | Support and cooperation urged between staff and new governor. |
| Attendees | Board members, senior bank officials, family representatives. |