For years, South Sudan’s economy functioned almost entirely on cash; a system fraught with inefficiencies, security risks, and high costs. Moving money across the country meant physically transporting cash, often under dangerous conditions, with senders losing up to 10% of the transaction value due to the risks involved. A handful of wealthy businessmen controlled this informal financial network, stocking reserves in high-demand towns like Yoilr, Bol, Wau, Yambio, Torit, and Nimule to reduce transportation risks. While this provided some relief, it was far from a sustainable solution.

In 2021, the financial landscape began to shift with the introduction of mobile money services like m-Gurush, MTN MoMo, and Digi Cash. Among these, MTN MoMo stood out, not just as a payment platform but as a powerful tool with the potential to drive financial inclusion on a national scale. Leveraging a strong agent network, it began reaching communities previously left out of formal financial systems, offering a safer, faster, and more reliable way to transact.

As mobile money adoption gained momentum, we stepped in as a key partner in accelerating this transformation. Tasked with educating, training, and activating customers and merchants for MTN MoMo Pay. We took on the challenge of bridging the gap between digital finance and everyday life in South Sudan. When MTN MoMo Pay launched in Juba on August 20, 2023, we quickly mobilised a dedicated team that grew from a small group to 200-foot soldiers and 10 team leads. Through roadshows, community activations, and direct engagement, we worked tirelessly to introduce MoMo Pay as a safe, efficient alternative to cash transactions.

Beyond increasing awareness, the team focused on ensuring accessibility. Many South Sudanese remained sceptical about mobile money, unsure of how it worked or how reliable it was. To address this, we established quick-response customer care centres to provide PIN resets, account upgrades, and troubleshooting, creating a support system that made digital finance more approachable and trustworthy. These efforts weren’t just about onboarding users, they were about building confidence in a new financial system that promised security and ease.

One of the most notable shifts was seen among small business owners, particularly merchants who had no choice but to rely on cash despite the risks involved. We led efforts to recruit, train, and support these merchants, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to transition into the digital economy.

The impact of this work is best reflected in stories like that of MaMa Antia, an entrepreneur in Gumbo Shirikat whose banana stall was once plagued by theft, fraud, and inconsistent payments. When she adopted MoMo Pay, she no longer had to worry about handling large sums of cash. Payments from vendors became instant and secure, allowing her to focus on expanding her business. With her newfound financial stability, she opened a second location in Nimule, hired her daughter, and even extended credit to five vendors in her community. Her journey is a testament to how access to digital tools can empower individuals, strengthen businesses, and uplift entire communities.

Despite the progress, challenges remain. Political instability continues to create uncertainties, and limited access to national identification makes it difficult for many citizens to register for mobile money services. South Sudan’s literacy rate, currently at just 34.5%, poses another hurdle, as many users struggle to navigate digital interfaces.

Yet, the resilience of both the people and the system is evident. Mobile money platforms are simplifying their interfaces to make transactions more user-friendly, while policymakers are exploring solutions to improve financial literacy and expand access to identification. These collective efforts reflect a strong commitment to ensuring no one is left behind in South Sudan’s digital financial evolution.

The future of digital payments in South Sudan holds immense potential. A country once constrained by cash-based transactions is now on the verge of a financial revolution where businesses can thrive without the burden of cash insecurity, transactions can be seamless, and financial services can be extended to even the most remote areas.

With continued investment, innovation, and collaboration, South Sudan has the opportunity to build an inclusive digital economy that serves its people. The journey still unfolds, but stories like MaMa Antia’s prove that the impact is real, and the momentum is unstoppable.