Technology and innovation driving change in South Sudan
In today’s fast-paced world, digital initiatives have become a cornerstone of economic development, particularly in transforming emerging markets. In South Sudan, a series of innovative projects spearheaded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with support from the African Development Bank and the Kingdom of Netherlands are reshaping the economic landscape for the better. These initiatives aim to harness the potential of technology in driving entrepreneurship, enhancing financial accessibility, and providing educational resources to a burgeoning youth population.
Central to these initiatives is Dukaanye.com, South Sudan’s first and largest digital marketplace. Its user-centric approach has enabled the platform to thrive in a challenging economic environment, fostering participation from local entrepreneurs. In a remarkable stride toward inclusivity, over 2,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have successfully registered on the platform, extending its reach across eight states. This evolution not only promotes individual business growth but also contributes to a broader economic transformation, underscoring the importance of digital commerce in South Sudan’s development journey.
Another key pillar of this digital strategy is the iHub, a versatile innovation and business hub aimed at empowering the youth. Located in major cities such as Juba, Torit, Rumbek, Bor, and Yambio, the iHub offers a wealth of resources, including entrepreneurship support, job placements, and access to e-learning programs. By providing targeted career advice and capacity-building initiatives, the hub is significantly enhancing the skills and employability of young people, helping them navigate a competitive job market and connect to global opportunities.
In tandem with these efforts, the introduction of a financial technology (FinTech) initiative is set to transform South Sudan’s financial sector. Collaborating with key financial intermediaries like Stanbic Bank and MGURUSH, the initiative aims to improve financial inclusion through interest-free loans for young entrepreneurs. This structure not only facilitates easier loan access but also accelerates the adoption of mobile money services, establishing a sustainable framework for financial transactions that empowers underserved populations to participate more fully in the economy.
As part of its comprehensive approach, the UNDP has also introduced an e-learning portal that enhances educational accessibility. This online platform allows users to access diverse courses, assignments, and interactive learning materials, catering to various learning preferences and schedules. The portal’s flexible, self-paced learning environment is vital for individuals seeking continuous education, especially in a country where traditional education methods may face constraints.
Further addressing employment challenges, an employment portal launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour serves as a centralized hub for job seekers and employers. By simplifying the job search process and connecting individuals with suitable opportunities, the portal plays a crucial role in workforce development and reducing unemployment rates in South Sudan.
Overall, these digital initiatives mark a significant leap forward, equipping South Sudan’s youth with vital tools for success in a rapidly evolving economic landscape. As young people engage with the resources at iHub and through platforms like Dukaanye.com and the employment portal, they are not only enhancing their skills but also contributing to the nation’s economic resilience and growth. By Sylvester,The City Review
