By Louis Loku
Western Equatoria State Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa has called on traders and residents to keep money circulating within the state, warning that the frequent transportation of large amounts of cash to Juba could reduce the availability of money in the local economy.
Badagbu made the remarks during a tour of markets in Yambio, where he assessed business activities, reviewed commodity prices, and interacted with traders and members of the community.
The governor said money brought into Western Equatoria plays an important role in supporting trade and other economic activities as it moves from one person to another through the buying and selling of goods and services.
However, he said the circulation is disrupted when traders collect money from sales and physically transport large amounts of cash to Juba by plane.
“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,” Badagbu said.
He urged the business community to consider using available money-transfer services when sending funds to Juba instead of carrying cash out of the state.
Badagbu said retaining more money within Western Equatoria would help ensure that traders, consumers, and businesses continue to have access to cash for daily transactions.
According to the governor, stronger circulation of money within the state could stimulate local trade, support small businesses, and contribute to increased economic activity.
He also encouraged residents to participate in efforts aimed at strengthening the local economy by supporting businesses and services operating within Western Equatoria.
The governor’s call comes as traders and consumers continue to face challenges related to access to cash and the movement of money between the states and the national capital.
Badagbu said keeping money circulating locally should be seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen business activities and improve the economic situation of Western Equatoria State.