How Technology Can Transform South Sudan’s Economy: Lessons from the Bottom Billion

The Lesson: Technology Lifts Economies

Paul Collier’s talk highlights how poor nations, often excluded from global prosperity, can harness technology to leapfrog developmental stages. From connecting farmers to markets through mobile phones to enabling transparency in governance, technology disrupts barriers that historically kept countries impoverished.

One powerful example comes from Africa’s mobile revolution. In countries like Kenya, mobile money systems like M-Pesa have revolutionized banking, allowing even rural communities to participate in the economy. Similarly, Ethiopia’s digitized agricultural platforms have improved yields and livelihoods.

These success stories hold valuable lessons for South Sudan.

How South Sudan Can Harness Technology

Despite its economic struggles, South Sudan has significant opportunities to leverage technology for growth. Here are key areas where technology can benefit its economy:

1. Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion

South Sudan’s economy is heavily cash-based, limiting financial access for many. Introducing digital payment systems, as seen in Kenya, can empower small businesses, farmers, and traders. Mobile banking can reduce reliance on cash, secure transactions, and enable rural communities to save and invest.

2. Agricultural Productivity

Agriculture employs most of South Sudan’s population, yet yields remain low due to outdated practices. Digital platforms can connect farmers with weather forecasts, market prices, and modern techniques. Such innovations could transform subsistence farming into a thriving, export-oriented industry.

3. Education and Skills Development

South Sudan has one of the lowest literacy rates globally. Technology can break educational barriers by providing remote learning opportunities through apps and online platforms. A skilled and educated workforce is key to attracting investors and fostering innovation.

4. Government Transparency and Accountability

Technology can combat corruption and promote good governance. Digital systems for tax collection, budget allocation, and resource management increase accountability and build investor confidence.

Real-Life Success Stories

Several nations once considered part of the "bottom billion" have successfully utilized technology for economic recovery:

• Rwanda: Following its devastating history, Rwanda embraced technology to rebuild. Its e-government initiatives streamlined public services, while its focus on ICT attracted global investors. Today, Kigali is a tech hub in East Africa.
• Uganda: Through mobile agriculture platforms, Ugandan farmers access real-time information, improving their productivity and incomes.

South Sudan can follow these examples by adopting similar strategies tailored to its unique context.

A Humane Approach to Economic Growth

At its heart, technology isn’t just about profits—it’s about people. When a farmer in Jonglei can sell surplus crops at fair prices using a smartphone, when a young girl in Juba can learn coding through online platforms, or when a local entrepreneur can access global markets, technology becomes a tool for dignity and empowerment.

South Sudan’s journey won’t be easy, but its potential is immense. With deliberate investments in technology and policies that prioritize inclusivity, South Sudan can rewrite its economic story.

As Paul Collier reminds us, the bottom billion can rise. For South Sudan, the time to rise is now.