South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Mayak Majak Madit Tokjok
In a move set to transform South Sudan’s financial landscape, the Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) has launched its new Rumbek Currency Centre, bringing banking services closer to the people and reinforcing confidence in the nation’s growing economy.
During the inauguration of the Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) branch in Lakes State on Saturday, the National Minister of Finance and Planning, Athian Ding Athian, stated that the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank are collaborating closely to ensure that all government institutions and businesses protect the economy from excessive risks.
He emphasised that unity and collective effort enable the stability of progress, adding that the people are a valuable asset in advancing development to unprecedented levels.
He recalled that the groundbreaking ceremony for the bank was initially attended by H.E. President Salva Kiir in 2013, and that vision has now materialised in 2025.
The Governor of Lakes State, Gen. Rin Tueny Mabor, commended the leadership of the Bank of South Sudan for the bold initiative of establishing the Bank of South Sudan in Lakes State—an idea first proposed by former Governor Hon. Koriom Mayiik. He noted that the new branch would enhance service delivery to the people.
Governor Rin described Lakes State as the heart of the country, emphasising the need for collective protection from the Rumbek community.
He also cited the establishment of the Kiir Mayardit Women’s Hospital, which serves the residents of the state, as a testament to the strong love and friendship towards President Salva Kiir Mayardit.
“I appeal to the people of Lakes State and Rumbek Central County, in particular, to take ownership of this facility and protect it as a national asset. In a very special way, I would like to congratulate President Salva Kiir Mayardit for considering our great Lakes State,” he said.
He added that with peace now prevailing, this is the true dividend of peace, and they are embarking on a path of development. This has been demonstrated by the Bank Governor, Dr. Addis Ababa Othow, who has ensured that this facility is operational.
Dr. Addis Ababa Othow, Governor of the Bank of South Sudan, praised the achievement as a worthy stability, shared responsibility, and shared prosperity. He noted that the inauguration is a living testament to the flourishing under the leadership of H.E. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit.
Dr. Othow remarked that the people of Lakes State and South Sudan, in general, are characterised by dignity, efficiency, and purpose, and they will significantly benefit from this currency centre.
“The grand opening of this Currency Centre in Rumbek is a testament to the prosperity and stability of our great nation. Given the strategic location of Rumbek town, the establishment of this Currency Centre is a reward for our liberation and a key step towards creating jobs for our people.”
He announced that the recruitment team from the Bank will hire 100% of the unclassified staff directly from Rumbek, ensuring employment opportunities for the local community in a transparent manner.
“We are fully committed to ensuring that this Currency Centre contributes to economic growth and stability in our country. I call upon all commercial banks to expand their operations across Lakes State, to enhance access to banking services and promote an inclusive financial system for all.”
The Chair of the Bankers Association in South Sudan, Madam Bruna Cirico, stated that the banking industry is working closely with the Bank of South Sudan to address challenges as they arise.
Among the key challenges she mentioned were lack of public confidence and limited access to cash, which have hindered operations. She expressed optimism that the opening of the currency centre will increase the availability of cash in the hands of the people of Lakes State and support economic growth.
The Director of Currency, Mr. Deng Aru Bol, explained that this currency bank is for all South Sudanese.
He stated that it would operate as a reserve centre for monthly salaries, where currency is processed, distributed, and managed through strategic systems, including cyber and other security devices.
He added that the centre was situated in Lakes State due to its stable security situation and infrastructure readiness.
The State Branch Manager of the Bank of South Sudan, Mr. Deng Ngor, commended the national government for its tremendous achievements supported by the state government since 2014, which facilitated the smooth inauguration of the branch.
He noted that the new bank will transform economic development and deliver services to the citizens of Lakes State, the Bhar El Region, and South Sudan as a whole.
The Commissioner of Rumbek Central County, Dut Manaak Akuot, welcomed the delegation and expressed gratitude to the Governor of the Bank of South Sudan for the long-awaited inauguration. He stated that money will no longer be transported in vehicles as in previous years, as disbursement will now take place directly through the bank located in the state.
He added that this development will help reduce unemployment among educated youth across the region and commended Governor Rin Tueny for stabilising the security situation and improving infrastructure, making such progress possible.
The grand opening ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including the National Minister of Finance and Planning, Hon. Athian Diing Athian, BoSS Governor, Dr. Addis Ababa Othow, Lakes State Governor, Rin Tueny Mabor, BoSS Deputy Governor, Hon. Rita Nyankiir Akoon, BoSS Board members, members of the Lakes State Parliament, and local community leaders.
The inauguration marks a significant milestone in BoSS’s efforts to expand financial services and strengthen banking infrastructure across South Sudan.
