By Sabri Dibaco
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has received the 2025 statutory annual audit report on the Juba Electricity Distribution Company (JEDCO).
The government pledged to use the findings to strengthen accountability and improve electricity services in South Sudan.
The report was presented to the president on Friday by Auditor General Steven Wondu, who said the audit was conducted to promote transparency, enhance institutional performance, and support informed decisions on the future direction of the country’s main electricity distribution company.
Wondu said President Kiir has consistently expressed concern over the limited supply of electricity in South Sudan and that the audit findings would provide important guidance for addressing challenges affecting JEDCO’s operations.
“The president has always demonstrated concern over the state of electricity supply in South Sudan, and the audit findings will assist him in making informed and concrete decisions regarding the performance and future of JEDCO,” the auditor general said after presenting the report.
The audit was conducted as part of the Auditor General’s constitutional responsibility to review the financial management and operational performance of public institutions. Its objective is to strengthen accountability, promote efficient use of public resources, and identify areas requiring improvement.
Receiving the report, President Kiir reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding access to reliable electricity as part of broader efforts to support economic recovery, infrastructure development, and improved public services.
The president emphasised that strengthening governance and accountability in key public institutions remains a priority for the government, particularly in sectors that directly affect citizens, businesses, and national development.
The audit findings are expected to inform future policy decisions aimed at improving JEDCO’s operational efficiency, financial management, and quality of service delivery.
JEDCO is the primary electricity distribution company serving Juba, providing power to households, businesses, and government institutions in the capital.
The company was established through a public-private partnership between the Government of South Sudan and private investors to improve electricity generation and distribution after years of severe power shortages.
However, the company continues to face significant challenges, including limited electricity generation capacity, aging infrastructure, high operational costs, power losses, and limited access to electricity beyond major urban areas.
Across much of South Sudan, millions of people still depend on diesel generators and other alternative energy sources due to the absence of a widespread national electricity grid.
The government’s energy reform agenda focuses on expanding electricity access, improving institutional governance, attracting private sector investment, and strengthening the financial sustainability of the power sector.
Officials say regular audits of public institutions such as JEDCO are essential for identifying weaknesses, improving management practices, and ensuring that resources are used effectively.
The latest audit report is expected to guide reforms aimed at improving the reliability, affordability, and efficiency of electricity services while reinforcing accountability within one of South Sudan’s most important public utilities.