(JUBA) – Tensions between the Government of South Sudan and the World Bank have slowed the rollout of the country’s flagship digital connectivity programme, a multimillion dollar initiative designed to link the nation more closely with regional and global networks.
Deputy Minister of Information, Communication, Technology and Postal Services, David Yauyau, said on Monday that disagreements with the World Bank and the International Development Association (IDA) were hindering progress on the East Africa Regional Digital Integration Project (EARDIP). He made the remarks at a regional meeting in Juba.
South Sudan is expected to benefit from a grant of 67 million US dollars (about 308.2 billion South Sudanese pounds), but the government says implementation has been held back by several issues. These include the dominance of international staff over local professionals, instability within the Project Implementation Unit (PIU), irregularities in PIU salaries, and delays in World Bank approval of programmes.
Yauyau also raised concerns over what he described as a lack of respect from foreign experts towards the ministry and the project coordinator. He argued that national professionals should be given priority in senior management positions.
“While we are making great strides, we also face challenges that threaten to delay our progress of the project,” he said.
According to the ministry, World Bank projects in South Sudan are often “overstaffed” with foreigners, a situation that reduces opportunities for qualified South Sudanese. Yauyau said national staff would be more likely to respect government protocols if given priority roles.
The East Africa Regional Digital Integration Project became effective on 1 March 2023 and is scheduled to run for five years. One of its most important components is the fibre optic connection from neighbouring Kenya, expected to be laid in early 2026. If completed, the link would mark a turning point for South Sudan, which has long struggled with poor and expensive internet services.
On a more positive note, Yauyau confirmed that the World Bank had approved funding of 191,000 US dollars (around 879 million South Sudanese pounds) for office space for the PIU. The funds will go towards renovating the ministry’s building in Juba.
South Sudan, which became independent in 2011, has a population of more than 12 million people and remains one of the least connected countries in the region. The government says accelerating digital development is critical to economic growth, financial inclusion and access to education and health services.
Financial Figures in the Digital Connectivity Project
| Item | Value (USD) | Value (SSP) |
|---|---|---|
| World Bank and IDA grant | 67 million | 308.2 billion |
| PIU office funding | 191,000 | 879 million |
The fibre optic link is seen as particularly important for integrating the economy with East Africa and reducing the cost of internet services for businesses and households.
