(Juba) – The Government of South Sudan has approved a $9 million (approx. 11.8 billion South Sudanese Pounds at current rates) budget to begin the design phase of a nationwide fibre optic infrastructure project. The move marks a significant step towards improving digital connectivity and modernising the country’s limited and costly internet systems.
The announcement was made on Friday following a high-level steering committee meeting chaired by the Deputy Minister of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services, David Yau Yau. Telecommunication Undersecretary Thomas Gatkuoth Nyak confirmed that the funding would be used to launch the initial design work for the fibre optic network.
South Sudan has long faced serious challenges in the digital sector. Most areas of the country still depend on outdated mobile networks or expensive satellite services. In rural regions, internet access is minimal or entirely absent. The result is a digital divide that affects education, healthcare delivery, commerce, and government services.
The planned fibre optic network aims to build a more stable and affordable internet backbone for South Sudan. The new system is expected to bring faster speeds and improved reliability to public institutions, businesses, and homes.
According to Abraham Mach, the project’s coordinator, contract agreements with specialist companies and engineers are expected to be signed in July 2025. These contractors will take on the design and technical planning of the fibre optic rollout. He described the project as “a cornerstone for modernising South Sudan’s communication systems,” saying it holds potential to close the digital gap between cities and remote areas.
Once implemented, the network could improve access to digital education tools for schools and universities, helping address educational inequalities that are widespread in rural counties. It could also offer new economic possibilities for small and medium-sized businesses by providing a platform for e-commerce and access to broader markets.
Healthcare services are another sector expected to benefit. With better connectivity, medical professionals could deliver services to remote areas through telemedicine, reducing the need for travel and enabling faster diagnosis and treatment.
Despite the optimism, government officials and digital experts warn that the project’s success will rely heavily on addressing logistical and security challenges. Parts of South Sudan remain difficult to access due to poor roads or ongoing insecurity. Furthermore, ensuring transparency in procurement and effective contract management will be vital to avoid delays or cost overruns.
The digital infrastructure gap in South Sudan has become more visible in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, when global reliance on online services intensified. Limited access to online platforms made it harder for South Sudanese students and professionals to keep up.
This new initiative, if properly managed, could help reposition the country in the digital era, boosting economic and social development. The Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services has called on national stakeholders, development partners, and technical experts to support the project through its next phases.
For a country rebuilding after years of conflict, the fibre optic plan may offer more than just faster internet—it could represent a bridge to future opportunity.
