JUBA – Some South Sudanese have expressed mixed reactions to the recent decision by the Bank of South Sudan to legalize mobile money platforms operated by telecom companies as legal tender.
The Central Bank of South Sudan last week declared mobile money a fully recognized and legal form of payment to ease business transactions as the country battles a protracted cash crisis.
The move is a key step in its 2023-2027 strategic plan to increase mobile money usage among adults to 30% by 2027, an initiative that aims to make digital financial services more accessible and affordable, particularly for underserved communities.
The decision establishes mobile money as equivalent to cash or bank transfers, requiring all businesses, service providers, and individual merchants to accept it when offered.
While many welcome it as a safer and more modern method of transaction, others expressed concerns over lack of awareness and limited network connectivity across the country.
Some citizens who spoke to Sudans Post expressed worry that the move, which reportedly includes penalties for refusing mobile money payments, could backfire if not accompanied by strong infrastructural support and public education.
Andrea Joseph welcomed the decision while underscoring the importance of public awareness on the use of mobile money in transactions in a country where illiteracy remains high.
“There must be civic education so that all people understand how mobile money works,” said Andrea.
Another citizen, James Mayang, welcomed the Central Bank’s decision, saying it was secure and convenient.
“No one can steal from you. There is privacy, and in emergencies, you can quickly access your money,” Mayang said.
However, Jacob Bior from Rumbek raised concerns about foreigners’ reluctance to adapt to the use of mobile money in transactions.
“Foreigners in the country don’t like using MoMo. If they don’t accept it, how do we expect locals to trade using it?” Bior asked.
Bior voiced concern over a cash shortage at a MoMo agent in Juba, a problem many have encountered when trying to withdraw cash.
“The government must go shop by shop to educate people on the importance of mobile money,” he urged.
Paul Gabriel from Bentiu questioned the implications of mobile money on traditional banking.
“I’m still doubtful. Won’t this affect how banks operate?” Gabriel asked.
Automatic Oliver Bulagala from Yambio highlighted recurring network issues in rural areas.
“On Sundays and Wednesdays, the network is very poor. Sometimes, you can’t access your money the whole day,” he explained.
Jadden, another user, said that while the initiative is well-intentioned, it faces major hurdles.
“Three weeks ago, MoMo agents had no cash. They asked us to deposit, but we couldn’t withdraw. Network issues are also very bad.”
He recommended a phased rollout before implementing the program nationwide.
Dutdut Tearz echoed similar sentiments, calling the policy premature.
“They should first invest in connectivity and technology. The challenges are too widespread to ignore,” he said.
Despite its promising goals, citizens are urging the government to invest in digital infrastructure and public education before full implementation of mobile money as legal tender.
