Governor Rimbabsa pushes for Bank of South Sudan branch in Yambio

JUBA – The Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, has called on the Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) to open a branch in Yambio, citing persistent financial access challenges facing residents of the state.

During a visit to the bank’s headquarters in Juba on Wednesday this week, Governor Rimbasa met with BoSS Governor Johnny Ohisa Damian to formally present the request. He said the absence of a central bank branch in Yambio has long constrained economic activity, particularly for farmers, traders, and small-scale entrepreneurs.

According to Rimbasa, many residents are forced to travel long distances to access banking services, resulting in delayed transactions, increased costs, and disruptions to agricultural trade. He argued that establishing a BoSS branch in Yambio would significantly ease these burdens and stimulate local economic growth.

“We are prepared to provide land in Yambio for the establishment of a BoSS branch,” Rimbasa said. “This initiative will strengthen financial services, improve access to loans, and create opportunities for farmers, traders, and investors across the state.”

The governor also underscored the need to modernise financial services in the state through digital solutions. He emphasised that mobile and digital payment systems could make transactions faster, safer, and more convenient, while promoting financial inclusion.

“Introducing mobile and digital payments will encourage broader participation in the financial system, especially among women, youth, and rural communities,” he added.

Rimbasa noted that limited banking infrastructure has discouraged investment in Western Equatoria, as many businesses struggle to save securely, access credit, or conduct efficient transactions. He expressed confidence that a local BoSS branch would remove these barriers and help unlock the state’s agricultural and commercial potential.

In response, BoSS Governor Johnny Ohisa welcomed the proposal and pledged the bank’s cooperation.

“The Bank of South Sudan is ready to work with Western Equatoria State to establish a branch in Yambio,” Ohisa said. “This will expand access to banking services, promote savings, and contribute to economic development in the state.”

The visit is part of broader efforts by the Western Equatoria government to strengthen financial systems, attract investment, and improve service delivery, positioning the state for sustainable economic growth.