Institutional and Technical Preparedness of the Bank of South Sudan for East African Monetary Union Integration: Bridging Policy Ambitions and Infrastructural Realities

 Author (s)

Agai Agai Maluil Jok & Prof. Dr. Maxwell Adea

Abstract

This study assesses the Bank of South Sudan’s preparedness for accession to the East African Monetary Union. It explores the relationship between policy commitments, operational capacity, and regional convergence requirements. A mixed-methods case study approach was adopted. The research draws on structured surveys, in-depth interviews with Bank of South Sudan personnel and policymakers, and documentary analysis of East African Community, International Monetary Fund, and World Bank sources. The findings show that the Bank of South Sudan has made progress in regulatory reform, digital payments, and workforce development. However, significant challenges remain in data quality, legal harmonization, leadership depth, and institutional memory. Statistical analysis reveals that reliable data systems, technical expertise, and continuous professional training are the strongest predictors of institutional readiness. These factors outweigh resource constraints or external policy directives. The study contributes new empirical evidence that successful monetary integration depends on bridging policy and infrastructure through internal capacity building and adaptive institutional learning. It concludes that South Sudan’s integration will require sequenced, context-driven reforms. These reforms should prioritize robust data infrastructures, ongoing staff development, and comprehensive legal and regulatory alignment. The research offers actionable recommendations for policymakers and development partners to bolster operational resilience and ensure that regional monetary integration is both effective and enduring.

Keywords: East African Monetary Union, Bank of South Sudan, Institutional Capacity, Technical Infrastructure, Monetary Integration, Regional Convergence, Data Systems, Central Bank Preparedness, Capacity Building, Legal and Regulatory Harmonization, Post-Conflict Economies.

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Cite This Article:

Jok, A. A. M. & Adea, M., (2026). Institutional and Technical Preparedness of the Bank of South Sudan for East African Monetary Union Integration: Bridging Policy Ambitions and Infrastructural Realities, Journal of Market Research, 2(1), 199-221. DOI: https://doi.org/10.58970/JMR.5022

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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

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.58970/JMR.5022

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