UK, Norway Press South Sudan on Transparency as Government Seeks Economic Support

By Patricia John

South Sudan’s Finance Minister, Kuol Daniel Ayulo, has pledged greater transparency in managing public finances as the government seeks stronger economic cooperation with international partners to combat persistent economic challenges.

During a meeting in Juba on Tuesday with British Ambassador David Ashley and Norwegian Ambassador Roar Haugsdal, discussions centered on public financial management reforms, economic stabilization, and restoring donor confidence.

Ayulo acknowledged the government’s urgent priorities, which include tackling inflation, addressing liquidity shortages, narrowing budget deficits, and diversifying the economy beyond oil revenues. Mobilizing resources to pay civil servants’ salaries also remains a critical hurdle.

As members of the Public Financial Management Oversight Committee, the UK and Norway emphasized that transparent management of public funds is vital for unlocking deeper economic partnerships.

The meeting comes amid mounting pressure on Juba to improve financial accountability while grappling with instability and rising demands for public services.The meeting was also attended by Deputy Finance Minister Thok Turuk Thok, South Sudan Revenue Authority Commissioner General Moun Deng Ajuet, and Planning Undersecretary Benjamin Ayali Koyongwa.