In a landmark development poised to reshape South Sudan’s digital landscape, the National Communication Authority (NCA) has awarded MTN South Sudan a new 15-year operating license, paving the way for enhanced telecom services and expanded digital connectivity across the country.
The signing ceremony, held at NCA headquarters in Juba, brought together top government and corporate officials including NCA Director General Eng. Napoleon Adok Gai, Minister of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services Michael Makuei Lueth, NCA Chairperson Prof. John Akec, MTN Group Regional Vice President Yolanda Cuba, and newly appointed MTN South Sudan CEO Mapula Victoria Rose alongside co-CEO Ali Monzer.
The new license replaces an outdated framework inherited from Sudan, aligning MTN’s operations with South Sudan’s national laws and regulatory ambitions. It also signals a strong vote of confidence in the country’s readiness to foster a competitive, innovative, and investor-friendly telecommunications industry.
“This step reflects South Sudan’s ability to meet critical benchmarks in telecommunications development,” said Eng. Gai, crediting the NCA Board and the ICT Ministry for their role in negotiating the deal.
He stressed that the new license emphasizes consumer protection and supports South Sudan’s push for digital inclusion.
Under the terms of the new license, MTN South Sudan commits to three strategic pillars: improving service quality, expanding network coverage nationwide, and delivering innovative, customer-centric solutions. These efforts are expected to significantly improve access to reliable telecom services in both urban centers and underserved rural areas.
Minister Makuei welcomed the agreement as a reflection of the government’s broader vision to transform South Sudan into a digitally empowered society. “This license is a testament to our resolve to build a robust digital economy that serves all South Sudanese,” he said.
Yolanda Cuba, MTN Group’s Regional Vice President for Southern and Eastern Africa, echoed the optimism, describing South Sudan as “a key market” and reaffirming MTN’s commitment to investing in the country’s digital future.
Mapula Victoria Rose, who now leads MTN South Sudan, pledged to deepen collaboration with local partners and authorities. “We are committed to meeting the goals of this license and delivering value to South Sudanese customers through innovation and improved services,” she said.
Industry analysts view the agreement as a turning point that could spark greater competition and investment in South Sudan’s telecom sector, with wider economic and social benefits.
As the country continues its path toward peace and development, the renewed partnership between the NCA and MTN positions telecommunications as a critical pillar of national progress—one that promises to connect communities, empower businesses, and unlock new opportunities for millions of South Sudanese.
