By Lodu William Odiya
Western Equatoria State Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa has urged traders and residents to stop transporting large amounts of cash to Juba by plane, saying the practice reduces the amount of money circulating within the state’s economy.
In a statement released by the governor’s press unit on Monday, Rimbasa encouraged the business community to keep money circulating locally to support businesses and stimulate economic activity in Western Equatoria State.
The governor made the remarks last week during a tour of markets in Yambio, where he assessed the general market situation, reviewed commodity prices, interacted with traders, and listened to concerns raised by members of the community.
Badagbu said money entering Western Equatoria initially circulates through local markets as residents purchase goods and services. However, he expressed concern that after traders sell their goods and receive payment, some physically transport large amounts of cash back to Juba by air.
According to the governor, the movement of cash out of the state leaves less money available for circulation among businesses and consumers within Western Equatoria.
“When this money enters the market and starts circulating, it eventually reaches the traders through the sale of their goods. But after selling their goods, the traders send the money back to Juba by plane. As a result, Western Equatoria is left with less money in circulation,” Rimbasa said in the statement.
He urged traders and residents who need to send money to Juba to use available money-transfer services instead of carrying physical cash on flights.
The governor said retaining more money within the state would help strengthen local businesses, improve trade, and support wider economic activity.
He called on traders, business owners, and residents to play a role in ensuring that money continues circulating within Western Equatoria, describing local circulation of cash as an important factor in strengthening the state’s economy.
Badagbu’s appeal comes as traders and consumers continue to face economic challenges, including fluctuating commodity prices and the availability of cash in local markets.