The recent presidential order to reduce electricity tariffs was welcomed by many across South Sudan, a country where high power costs have long burdened families and businesses. On the surface, the move seems to offer relief.
But in South Sudan, even a good solution can create new problems. And this time, it may come at the cost of local workers and deeper economic justice.
The Juba Electricity Distribution Company (JEDCO) may not oppose the president’s directive openly, but its response will likely be tactical. Instead of reducing the financial pressure on ordinary citizens, the company might quietly introduce hidden charges or reduce the quality of service. Most troubling is what insiders already fear: salary cuts of up to 50% for local employees.
Many South Sudanese working for JEDCO reportedly earn around $200 per month, while foreign employees serving the same position—particularly from Eritrea and Ethiopia earn up to $1,500.
This massive wage gap isn’t just unfair—it’s a sign of a broken Labor system that Favors outsiders over citizens, even in the heart of our capital. If the directive leads to cost-cutting, we know who will suffer first.
South Sudan needs electricity—that much is clear. But we also need dignity for our workers, transparency in our utility companies, and a government that follows through on its orders with concrete policies to protect the people. Without that, public orders are just empty words, and companies will continue to act as they wish, unchecked.
Let this not be another case where a problem solved on paper becomes a deeper wound in reality. South Sudanese deserve better. We call on the government to urgently develop a new modality—one that ensures affordable electricity, protects workers, and puts the national interest above private profits.
The author, Diing Atem Akoi Diing is an opinion writer. He can be
reached at the email address diingoyaatem@gmail.com.