• South Sudan approved more than $9 billion to build a national fiber-optic backbone.
• Authorities created a supervisory committee to tighten governance of digital gateways and data centers.
• The country ranks near the bottom of the UN e-government development index.

South Sudanese authorities last week formally established a supervisory committee for gateway services and the national data center. The committee aims to strengthen governance, accountability, and institutional oversight of these strategic infrastructures.

The National Communications Authority created the committee with technical support from Swiss firm mgi Communications ag (MGI). The committee prioritizes the digitization of revenue flows from South Sudan’s International Gateway (SSIGW), the modernization of infrastructure to accelerate digital transformation, and the protection of national sovereignty and security interests across all operations.

“By strengthening regulatory oversight and digitizing revenue collection, the NCA ensures that national communication resources contribute directly to economic growth and technological independence, for a more connected future,” the telecoms regulator said.

This initiative forms part of South Sudan’s broader digital transformation agenda. The president recently signed a decree ordering the digitization of all public institutions. The executive branch expects this transformation to stimulate innovation, raise productivity, expand access to global markets, create jobs, promote entrepreneurship, develop infrastructure, support data-driven decision-making, and foster inclusive growth.

To reach these objectives, the government seeks to reinforce digital infrastructure nationwide. In July 2025, lawmakers approved a budget exceeding $9 billion to build a national fiber-optic backbone. Authorities announced the start of construction of 2,400 kilometers of fiber in December 2025. The information and communications technology minister also presented initiatives to reduce the cost of internet access.

In a diagnostic study published in 2023, the World Bank said South Sudan’s digital economy remains at an early stage despite its potential. The institution said high internet costs, limited access, and the absence of a clear and predictable regulatory framework continue to deter private investment.

For now, South Sudan ranks second to last on the United Nations E-Government Development Index, which assesses 193 countries. The East African country recorded a score of 0.1191 out of 1, well below African and global averages. For telecom infrastructure, the country posted a score of 0.0547 out of 1.

This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum