By Matik Kueth
The Ministry of Finance and Planning has unveiled a proposed 5.2 trillion South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) budget for the 2025/2026 financial year, an increase of 1 trillion SSP compared to last year’s allocation.
The proposal, presented to the Economic Cluster by Finance Minister Dr. Marial Dongrin Ater, focuses on stimulating economic recovery, stabilizing the macroeconomic environment, and backing democratic governance.
The proposed budget prioritizes investment in agriculture and mining, timely salary payments for government workers, and extended humanitarian aid for the nation’s most vulnerable populations.
In addition to budget discussions, the Economic Cluster reviewed a national strategy introduced by President Salva Kiir Mayardit aimed at youth empowerment.
This includes drafting a new Intellectual Property Policy to safeguard young innovators and foster a creative economy.
Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel emphasized the importance of accountability, transparency, and ensuring that government spending directly benefits the citizens.
He urged all institutions to align their financial practices with a people-focused development model.
Parliamentarians raised alarms over last year’s budget deficit, which accounted for nearly half (46%) of the total spending.
Many lawmakers pressed for at least 10% of the new budget to be funneled into agriculture, citing the urgent need to modernize farming, supply tools and seeds, and support agricultural education.
They also advocated for enhanced funding for the healthcare and education sectors.
However, concerns voiced by MPs about recent tax increases, especially on passports, business licenses, and national documentation, remained unaddressed in the proposed budget, despite being noted in discussions.