(JUBA) – The Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services (MoICT/PS) in South Sudan is considering introducing licensing requirements and taxes for radio and television stations to help address rising operational and salary costs across its institutions.
The discussion took place during the Ministry’s 12th leadership meeting held in Juba, chaired by Minister Michael Makuei Lueth.
During the session, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Communication Authority (NCA), Professor John Akec Apuruot, presented a concept note proposing a sustainable financing mechanism through licensing of broadcast media.
Professor Akec’s proposal aims to support the Ministry and its affiliated bodies, including the NCA, South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), Media Authority and the Access to Information Commission, many of which are currently struggling to meet basic operational costs.
Speaking after the meeting, SSBC Managing Director James Magok Chilim expressed support for the proposed licensing plan, saying that such a system would help solve the financial challenges that have affected the performance of the Ministry and its parastatals.
He noted that many of the institutions under the Ministry’s portfolio have been unable to operate effectively due to limited or no budgetary support, especially for staff salaries and essential services.
Chilim stressed that once licensing and taxation policies are implemented, they could enable greater independence, efficiency and service delivery in public communication systems across the country.
No specific fees or charges were announced at the meeting.
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