New Bill on Horizon
Information Minister Ateny Wek Ateny confirmed in Juba that a Data Protection Bill will reach parliament before 2026, framing it as the ‘missing broth’ that completes South Sudan’s cyber legislation.
The draft will complement the Cybercrime and Abuse of Computer Bill 2025, already passed by lawmakers and awaiting presidential assent.
Digital Economy Surge in Juba
Mobile money platforms, e-commerce start-ups and social media influencers are multiplying in Juba’s fast-growing digital market, where youth connectivity often outruns traditional regulation.
Officials argue that investment confidence depends on clear rules for data storage, consent and cross-border transfers.
Civil Society Voices Seek Safeguards
Activist Edmund Yakani welcomed the cybercrime bill but warned of ‘loopholes’ that could allow abuses if data rights are not explicitly protected.
He noted a spike in AI-manipulated images targeting women and called for police, judges and MPs to receive digital evidence training.
Regional Alignment Ambitions
Juba hopes the forthcoming law will mirror Kenya’s Data Protection Act and the African Union’s Malabo Convention, easing regional data flows and fintech expansion.
Analysts say harmonised standards could help local entrepreneurs enter markets like Congo-Brazzaville, where privacy guidelines are evolving within CEMAC frameworks.
Capacity Building Imperative
Ministry technocrats admit that enforcing new rules will require specialised cyber units, secure servers and sustained public awareness campaigns.
Telecom giant MTN has pledged workshops for engineers and students, while donors explore funding for a national computer emergency response team.
Road to 2026
Government lawyers plan to circulate a white paper this year, then hold cross-sector consultations before presenting the bill in early 2026.
Stakeholders agree that striking a balance between innovation and protection will decide whether South Sudan’s digital promise matures into inclusive prosperity.