Equity Bank South Sudan has officially launched a new digital payment platform called ‘Pay with Equity’, a cashless system designed to enable customers and merchants to conduct transactions electronically, eliminating the need for physical cash.
The mobile-based application allows Equity Bank account holders to pay for goods and services at zero transaction cost, provided the merchants have registered Equity Till Numbers.
The innovation is expected to ease the burden of carrying large amounts of cash and promote digital financial services across the country.
Speaking during the launch event in Juba, Anthony Nderitu, Head of Payments at Equity Bank, said the system is secure, instant, and user-friendly.
“This is not just a payment solution, it’s a commitment to simplicity, security, and convenience in daily transactions,” Nderitu stated. “We listened to our customers who said they wanted a safer and more efficient way to pay. With ‘Pay with Equity’, we’re putting the bank in your phone.”
Nderitu emphasized that the service is already in use by boda boda riders, tuktuk drivers, supermarkets, and other vendors, and encouraged more businesses to adopt the platform.
“Today, many of us forget our wallets, but hardly ever forget our phones. That’s why we are shifting the banking experience from wallets to smartphones,” he added.
The launch ceremony was officiated by Dr. Addis Ababa Othow, First Deputy Governor of the Bank of South Sudan (BOSS), who praised the initiative as a step toward building a modern, digital economy.
“This launch is aligned with our national vision of transitioning into a cashless society,” Dr. Othow said. “Digital financial services drive trade and unlock opportunities.
“We urge merchants, whether supermarkets, boda boda riders, restaurants, or schools, to embrace this platform.”
However, despite the promising outlook, experts and stakeholders have pointed out potential challenges that could hinder the widespread adoption of the system, particularly the country’s high digital divide and low levels of literacy and digital skills.
In many parts of South Sudan, internet connectivity remains limited and smartphone penetration is still low, especially in rural areas. Additionally, a significant portion of the population lacks the literacy and digital know-how required to use such applications confidently and securely.
To overcome these barriers, both Equity Bank and the government will need to collaborate on digital literacy campaigns, infrastructure investment, and training programs.
James N. Kiarie, Acting Managing Director of Equity Bank South Sudan, acknowledged the importance of inclusion and education.
“This initiative reaffirms our commitment to transforming South Sudan’s financial sector. It’s not just about technology, it’s about financial inclusion, access, and economic growth,” Kiarie said. “We will work closely with stakeholders to ensure that no one is left behind.”
Kiarie urged the public to embrace the platform, assuring them of its safety and reliability.
“Pay with Equity is friendly, efficient, and effective. We encourage our customers to trust and use the system as we build a more inclusive digital economy.”
