By Lodu William Odiya
The Board of Directors of the National Communications Authority (NCA) has endorsed a package of regulatory measures aimed at ensuring the sustainability, viability, and continued operation of South Sudan’s telecommunications sector amid growing economic and operational challenges.
According to the NCA Press unit, the decision was reached during an extraordinary meeting held on Tuesday, where the board reviewed the current state of the telecommunications industry and assessed measures needed to guarantee uninterrupted access to communication services across the country.
During the meeting, the NCA Director General presented a comprehensive briefing on the macroeconomic pressures and operational difficulties affecting telecommunications service providers.
The briefing also highlighted ongoing engagements between the authority and mobile network operators, as well as consultations conducted with government institutions, members of parliament, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.
According to the authority, these consultations were aimed at identifying practical and sustainable solutions to challenges threatening the stability of the sector.
The board acknowledged the extensive efforts undertaken by the NCA management in exploring policy options to address the industry’s concerns.
Members commended the director general and the management team for their consultative approach and commitment to safeguarding national connectivity while balancing the interests of consumers and service providers.
Following deliberations, the Board approved a series of regulatory interventions designed to support the financial sustainability of telecommunications operators, preserve service continuity, and ensure that telecommunications services remain accessible to citizens, businesses, and institutions throughout South Sudan.
The board emphasised that consumer protection and service quality must remain central to any measures implemented within the sector.
It also underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement and public awareness to ensure transparency and understanding of any changes affecting telecommunications services.
The telecommunications sector plays a critical role in supporting economic activities, digital connectivity, financial services, and communication across South Sudan.
Industry stakeholders have recently expressed concerns over the impact of economic challenges on operational costs and service delivery.
In a statement issued after the meeting, the National Communications Authority reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with all stakeholders to build a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable telecommunications sector capable of supporting economic growth, digital inclusion, and national development.
The authority said it will continue engaging relevant stakeholders as it implements the approved measures and monitors their impact on the sector and consumers.