from ANYANG GARANG in Juba, South Sudan
South Sudan Bureau
JUBA, (CAJ News) – AUTHORITIES have reported exceptional uptake of the historic Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) system, aimed at strengthening digital payment integration and modernising financial operations in South Sudan.
The Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) and the Ministry of Finance and Planning are reviewing implementation progress and governance arrangements following the platform’s introduction in October 2025.
It is the flagship project of the world’s newest country to advance digital transformation, with the financial sector at the centre of the drive.
Akum David Sahbaker, BoSS Director of the National Payment System Department, said commercial banks are processing high-value transactions via the platform.
“RTGS ensures instant settlement of high-value transactions and strengthens trust in the payment system,” he said.
Sahbaker said the system aligns South Sudan with regional and international payment frameworks and supports ongoing digital transformation.
The official was among executives who participated in a meeting in Juba on Monday.
The RTGS platform enables real-time electronic submission, verification and settlement of transactions between banks and government institutions, improving speed, transparency and efficiency.
BoSS Governor Johnny Ohisa Damian said: “The RTGS system will improve efficiency, transparency, and real-time settlement of government transactions.”
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to full implementation across state institutions.
“We are committed to ensuring full adoption of RTGS to improve public financial management and accountability,” said Malual Tap Dieu, First Undersecretary at the Ministry of Finance and Planning.
South Sudan’s digital transformation has lagged behind other African countries due to civil conflict since independence in 2011.
Following relative stability, the country is modernising its banking sector through an ambitious structural and digital transformation aimed at reducing reliance on cash and increasing financial inclusion.
The central bank is also encouraging the adoption of mobile money.
– CAJ News