South Sudanese Face Hurdles in Claiming Inherited Assets

By Waure Eddy

A newly released national report titled “Ending Family Poverty: Unlocking the Funds of Next of Kin” has revealed the serious bureaucratic and cultural barriers that prevent many South Sudanese citizens from accessing the assets left behind by their deceased relatives. The report highlights how outdated systems, lack of legal clarity, and traditional practices are trapping families in cycles of poverty.

The report is the result of a collaboration between the Organisation for Liberty and Entrepreneurship (OLENT) in South Sudan and Ghana’s Institute for Liberty and Policy Innovation (ILAPI), with generous support from Atlas Network.

According to the study, which surveyed 279 individuals (96 women and 183 men) across seven locations—Malakal, Warrap, Bentiu, Wau, Yambio, Juba, and Pibor—the journey to claim assets is often riddled with delays and strain.

Speaking at the release, OLENT Executive Director John Mustapha Kutiote described the findings as alarming but crucial for driving policy and cultural change.

“In certain instances, this process took between 14 to 56 working days, and individuals faced unofficial costs ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 SSP or $100 to $400 USD,” he revealed.

A key concern is the low prevalence of written wills. Over 50% of respondents admitted they do not have one, citing reasons such as fear of death, cultural resistance, and lack of awareness.

Although many have designated next of kin on bank accounts, nearly 30% have not informed the individual due to fear, mistrust, or family tensions.

The report also noted that 85% of participants identified as Christian, reflecting the dominant faith in the regions surveyed. Youth made up 55% of respondents, highlighting the need for targeted education campaigns to help young people understand inheritance processes and legal documentation.

“Some respondents reported being asked to pay up to 10% of the deceased’s funds as unofficial fees to access their entitlements,” Mustapha added.

“The study involved voices from 11 participants across various states, representing 10 financial institutions. Among them are Eden Commercial Bank, Buffalo Commercial Bank, Nile Commercial Bank, and Qatar National Bank South Sudan.”

“Alarmingly, over 70 percent of these institutions admitted to not contacting next of kin following the death of an account holder. As a result, countless accounts lie dormant, untouched, unknown, and unresolved.”

“OLENT’s statement calls for policy reforms, awareness campaigns, and institutional responsibility. This report is not just data; it’s a wake-up call for financial transparency and family empowerment in South Sudan.”

The report aims to spark policy reform and promote public dialogue on estate planning, family communication, and the institutional accountability needed to protect citizens’ financial rights after loss.