South Sudan Needs Economic Formalisation Before Elections, Not Elections Alone

South Sudan is scheduled to hold its first general elections in December 2026. Elections matter, but I believe democracy alone does not transform a country. Sound economic policies do. In my view, South Sudan should prioritise formalising its economy before the elections. Workers should receive salaries through bank accounts, businesses should be properly registered and taxed, and informal economic activity should be brought into the formal system. This could improve tax collection, expand access to credit and create a clearer picture of the country’s real economic output. I also believe the government should establish a realistic minimum wage and require employers to contribute to retirement savings through licensed pension fund managers. Giving workers access to banking, credit and pension savings can support small businesses and long-term economic growth. Economic reforms should come before, or at least alongside, the planned elections.

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