South Sudan has launched the MTN network in the Abuyong Payam area of Lakes State.
The Minister of Information, Communication Technology, and Postal Services, Michael Makuei Lueth, stated that this initiative would significantly ease communication and government operations in rural areas.
In addition, the project will facilitate money transfers between the capital and the states, while also enhancing services such as education and healthcare.
Following this effort, three more network installations are planned for the Greater Pibor and Cuebet regions. These new networks are also expected to help address security challenges faced by local authorities.
However, the project has faced some criticism. During the launch event, the Minister of Information for Lakes State, Ring Tueny Mabor—representing the Governor—pointed out that the network currently covers only five (5) kilometers and called for the coverage area to be expanded.
In response, Mabe Emmanuel, Secretary-General of the Universal Service and Access Fund (USAF), assured that this issue would be addressed as soon as possible.