South Sudan Looks to Russia for Digital and Mineral Development

(Juba) – South Sudan has reached out to Russia for assistance in developing its information and communications technology (ICT) and mineral sectors. A high-level South Sudanese delegation is currently in Russia attending the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), one of the country’s most significant international business events.

The delegation, led by Thomas Gatkuoth Nyak, Undersecretary for Telecommunications in the Ministry of ICT and Postal Services, is expected to spend a full week in Russia. The aim is to study and learn from Russia’s experience in developing ICT infrastructure and managing natural resource investments. The forum officially began on Thursday, June 19, and runs until Saturday, June 21, 2025.

South Sudan’s Ministry of ICT explained that the trip is part of a broader national plan to strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure and increase investment in the minerals sector. Other members of the delegation include Gieth Kon Mathiang, Director General of the National Communication Authority, Elijah Alier Kuai, Managing Director of the Media Authority, and Mabe Emmanuel Michael, Secretary General of the Universal Service and Access Fund.

Speaking from Russia, Nyak said the South Sudanese team took part in a session focused on global challenges and the future of online platforms in an age of digital transformation. According to Nyak, the conversation with Russian technology experts focused on how existing digital tools and platforms could be improved or replaced to support better government services and business innovation in South Sudan.

“We had a big conversation with Russian experts on how the existing platforms and technologies can be replaced to effect positive changes in governments’ policies and businesses,” Nyak said.

Besides the main forum events, the delegation also has several side meetings planned with Russian government officials and private sector entrepreneurs. These meetings are expected to explore areas of collaboration that could include technical support, training, and investment partnerships.

South Sudan, which became independent in 2011, is still recovering from years of internal conflict that erupted in 2013. Although a peace agreement was signed in 2018, the country continues to face infrastructure and service delivery challenges, particularly in digital communications and resource management.

Since the relative return to peace, South Sudan’s government has placed ICT development among its top priorities. Officials say they are now seeking to build a reliable digital ecosystem that supports both the public and private sectors and helps bridge the country’s wide digital gap.

The country is also looking to expand investment in its underexplored mineral sector, which includes gold, copper, and other valuable natural resources.