South Sudan has secured a major legal victory in a high-profile arbitration case against telecom operator Vivacell, with an international tribunal reducing the company’s $2.9 billion compensation claim to just $48.4 million.
Michaeal Makuei, Minister of Information, Communication, Technology, and Postal Services, made the announce on Monday saying
“This is a great achievement,” said Minister Makuei. “They claimed 2.9 billion dollars, but the final award is just 48 million. It proves that we were right all along.”
The dispute dates back to 2018, when the National Communication Authority (NCA) suspended Vivacell’s operations for non-compliance with national telecom licensing regulations, including failure to pay required fees.
Vivacell, also known as Network of the World (NoW), alleged unlawful termination and filed for arbitration, demanding $2.9 billion in damages.
Hearings took place in 2022 and 2024, with the final decision handed down on May 26, 2025, with the tribunal ruled largely in favor of the Government of South Sudan, significantly reducing the compensation sought by Vivacell.
Minister Makuei noted that when the company ceased operations, it abandoned its equipment, assets, and more than 200 South Sudanese employees without settling its legal and financial obligations.
“The ruling underscores South Sudan’s commitment to lawful and transparent business practices,” he said. “We welcome investors, but they must operate within our legal framework.”
The government is now reviewing the tribunal’s full report to determine appropriate next steps regarding the payment of the awarded amount.
The National Communication Authority also welcomed the ruling, describing it as a vindication of its regulatory enforcement actions and reaffirming its commitment to a fair and accountable telecom sector.
