Bank of South Sudan Set to Unveil First-Ever National Instant Payment System

The Bank of South Sudan (BOSS) has announced a groundbreaking initiative to launch the country’s first National Instant Payment System (NIPS), in collaboration with the AfricaNenda Foundation. This transformative project marks a pivotal milestone in the modernization of South Sudan’s financial and payment infrastructure, advancing the bank’s commitment to providing enhanced financial services for all citizens. The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to integrates t other critical infrastructures, such as Automated Clearing House (ACH) and Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) systems and instants fund transfer (IFT).

The National Instant Payment System is designed to enable real-time, secure, and cost-effective transactions, promoting interoperability between banks, mobile money providers, and other financial institutions. As the backbone of South Sudan’s digital payment ecosystem, NIPS will facilitate a wide range of financial transactions, including person-to-person (P2P), person-to-business (P2B), government-to-person (G2P), and person-to-government (P2G) payments, fostering greater inclusivity and efficiency in the financial sector.

“The start of the NIPS journey marks a monumental step forward for financial and socio-economic inclusion in South Sudan” said Johnny Ohisa Damian Governor of the Bank of South Sudan. “This partnership with AfricaNenda Foundation is pivotal in transforming the financial services landscape, fostering greater inclusivity, and  creating a more resilient digital economy.”

Key areas of focus for the partnership include:

• Developing a detailed roadmap for NIPS implementation, with clear milestones.
• Building the capacity of BOSS and financial institutions to effectively oversee and manage the system.
• Ensuring integration and interoperability by collaborating with banks, telcos, and other stakeholders.

Following the successful 2023 proof-of-concept phase, which demonstrated high demand and feasibility, BOSS and AfricaNenda are confident that NIPS will reshape South Sudan’s financial ecosystem. Beyond increasing financial accessibility, the system will empower businesses, streamline government operations, and enable citizens to thrive in a modern digital economy.

This initiative uunderscores BOSS’s commitment to building a sustainable, innovative, and inclusive financial future for all South Sudanese citizens.

“We are proud to partner with the Bank of South Sudan on this landmark initiative,”  said Robert Ochola, CEO of the AfricaNenda Foundation. “Instant payment systems are transformative tools that redefine access to financial services and promote  inclusivity. With the launch of this system, South Sudan is laying the foundation for a  more connected and resilient economy that benefits every citizen.”