Trade Ministry Reviews Digital Payment System for Trade Licences

(Juba) – Senior officials from South Sudan’s Ministry of Trade and Industry received a formal presentation from Crawford Capital regarding a proposed Mobile Payment E-System aimed at modernising trade processes in the country on Thursday, June 26, 2025.

The meeting was attended by the National Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon. Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk; Technical Advisor Hon. Simon Nyang; Undersecretary Hon. Ustaz Yel Luol; and all Director Generals within the ministry. The Crawford Capital delegation was led by Mr. Bul Mawat Khoriom, an information technology expert.

During the presentation, the Crawford team outlined how the new digital system would streamline the application process for import and export certificates, licences, and associated payments. The goal is to transition from manual, paper based systems to more transparent and efficient digital procedures.

Minister Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk expressed her appreciation for the comprehensive presentation and emphasised the importance of reviewing the proposal thoroughly.

She noted that the Directorate of External Trade would assess the suggested system and recommend any necessary additions to ensure the process is complete and harmonised.

In the second part of the meeting, Technical Advisor Hon. Anei, who previously served as the Ministry’s Undersecretary, addressed earlier internal concerns regarding the current Director of External Trade.

He confirmed that these matters were resolved during his term and urged staff members not to circulate unfounded allegations. He stressed that administrative changes within ministries are normal and should be respected.

Undersecretary Hon. Ustaz Yel Luol also echoed this message. He shared his own professional journey, having served previously as Undersecretary at the Ministry of Investment and as Chief Administrator in the Office of the President. He encouraged ministry personnel to embrace change and focus on their responsibilities.

The proposed Mobile Payment E-System is seen as part of wider efforts to modernise public services in South Sudan, particularly in areas related to commerce and trade.

If implemented, it could reduce bureaucracy, improve transparency, and enhance the ease of doing business.