(JUBA) – The newly appointed Governor of the Bank of South Sudan, Hon. Samuel Yeni Costa, has called for wider use of digital financial services as part of efforts to modernise the country’s financial sector and reduce pressure on physical cash.
Speaking during his first address after taking office on 18 November, Governor Yeni said greater use of mobile money, card payments and other electronic systems would help improve efficiency, strengthen public trust in the financial sector and support broader economic stability.
He said that many people often speak of cash shortages, yet the country has alternative payment options that remain underused.
He pointed out that in countries such as the United States, most purchases are carried out through digital platforms, which helps maintain smooth transactions even when cash is limited:
“When people say there is no cash, we must remind them that there is an alternative. Digital payment systems offer a reliable solution that reduces dependence on physical currency. Strengthening our digital platforms will help ensure that our currency keeps its value and stays accessible to everyone.”
First Deputy Governor Samuel Yanga Mikaya also spoke about the need to address gaps that continue to limit the use of digital payments, especially within the business community.
He noted that although many customers already store funds in their digital wallets, some service providers are still not prepared to accept these forms of payment:
“We need to address this so that when customers have money in their digital wallets, service providers are also ready and able to deliver the services. This is the challenge we must work on.”
Governor Yeni further encouraged Bank of South Sudan staff to uphold professionalism, fairness and transparency, saying these values are vital to restoring confidence in the institution. He added that strong performance within the central bank will help strengthen the country’s wider financial system.
No local currency figures were mentioned during the event, and no financial commitments were announced.
Central Bank Calls for Broader Card and Mobile Use
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Event | First public address by new Bank of South Sudan Governor |
| Location | Juba County, South Sudan |
| Date | 18 November 2025 |
| Main Message | Call for wider adoption of digital payment systems |
| Key Focus Areas | Mobile money, card services, electronic payment systems |
| Reason for Digital Push | Reduce pressure on physical cash and improve financial efficiency |
| Governor’s View | Digital systems help maintain stable transactions and support currency value |
| First Deputy Governor’s Concern | Limited acceptance of digital payments by businesses |
| Identified Challenge | Service providers not fully ready to accept digital wallet payments |
| Internal Message to Staff | Professionalism, fairness and transparency needed to rebuild public confidence |
| Relevance to South Sudan | Supports financial sector reform and aims to ease cash shortages |
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