South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Communication and Postal Services, Ateny Wek Ateny, has defended the recent increase in telecommunications charges, saying the adjustment is necessary to prevent a possible nationwide shutdown of mobile and internet services.
He stated that the country’s worsening economic conditions have made it difficult for telecom companies to continue operations, saying operators need foreign currency to pay for fuel, equipment, network maintenance and other services. He added that limited access to hard currency has pushed companies into financial losses.
“The choice between increasing tariffs and closing down: I have to choose the best for this country,” Ateny said. “I opted for the increment simply because it will let the services continue.”
The information minister was speaking to state-owned SSBC.
His comments follow another adjustment in voice and data charges by MTN, Zain and Digitel.
The government and telecom operators have previously attributed the increases to inflation, depreciation of the South Sudanese Pound and limited access to foreign currency.
The National Communication Authority says the underlying tariffs have not changed, but the exchange rate used to calculate the tariffs has been adjusted to reflect prevailing economic conditions.
However, the latest increases have triggered public concern, with some lawmakers questioning the level of regulation of telecommunications companies.
Ateny also addressed his previous criticism of a similar tariff increase in 2024 before being appointed minister, saying his earlier position was based on assumptions about the challenges faced by telcos.
“At that time it was based on assumptions,” he said, adding that analysts may project situations without having direct access to the realities facing the sector.
Parliament has called on Minister Ateny to explain the tariff increases and clarify the government’s role in regulating the telecommunications sector.
The government maintains that keeping mobile and internet services operational is essential, saying the latest tariff adjustment is intended to prevent service disruptions rather than simply increase prices.
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