Assessing the Readiness of the Bank of South Sudan for East African Monetary Integration: Institutional Capacity, Technical Preparedness, and Macroeconomic Convergence

 Author (s)

Agai Agai Maluil Jok & Prof. Dr. Maxwell Adea

Abstract

This study assesses the readiness of the Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) for the East African Monetary Union (EAMU). It focuses on institutional capacity, technical preparedness, and macroeconomic convergence. A mixed-methods case study design was used. It combined structured surveys of 50 BoSS staff, semi-structured interviews with policymakers, and documentary analysis of EAC, IMF, and World Bank reports. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings show that BoSS has made progress through regulatory reforms, investments in payment systems, and staff qualifications. However, major challenges remain. The strongest predictors of decision-making efficiency and transparency were reliable data systems (B = 0.371, p = 0.049), staff technical expertise (B = 0.330, p = 0.037), and continuous training (B = 0.409, p = 0.009). Financial resources, legal frameworks, and regional cooperation were not significant predictors. The model explained 52.5% of the variance in decision-making outcomes. Gaps persist in legal harmonization, data quality, leadership depth, and long-term institutional experience. The study concludes that South Sudan’s accession to the EAMU requires a sequenced and evidence-driven approach. This should begin with targeted capacity building and continuous staff training, alongside the development of harmonized data systems to strengthen institutional and technical readiness. Accordingly, policymakers and development partners should prioritize investments in the institutional resilience and technical infrastructure of the Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) to ensure its capacity to meet the requirements of EAMU accession.

Keywords: East African Monetary Union, Bank of South Sudan, Institutional Capacity, Technical Readiness, Monetary Integration, Regional Convergence, Data Management, Central Banking, Capacity Building, Legal Harmonization.

Download PDF

Cite This Article:

Jok, A. A. M. & Adea, M., (2026). Assessing the Readiness of the Bank of South Sudan for East African Monetary Integration: Institutional Capacity, Technical Preparedness, and Macroeconomic Convergence International Journal of Science and Business, 53(1), 146-166.  https://doi.org/10.58970/IJSB.2707

About Author (s)

Agai Agai Maluil Jok, Director General, Currency and Bank Operations, Bank of South Sudan, Juba, Republic of South Sudan.

Prof. Dr. Maxwell Adea (Corresponding Author), Professor of Research Methodology, Ayii University, Juba, South Sudan; Visiting Professor of Stafford University, South Sudan; & Deputy Principal of Graduate College, Supervisor and Examiner of Doctor of Philosophy Candidates, University of Juba, South Sudan. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0003-6050-3769

Download PDF

DOI: https://doi.org/10.58970/IJSB.2708

Summarize this article with: