How South Sudan’s mobile money service, mGurush is improving lives of the unbanked

South Sudan, a country with vast potential but historically hindered by political turmoil, is now on the path to transformation through innovative mobile money services. mGurush, a mobile money company established five years ago, has been instrumental in easing the flow of cash within the country and revolutionizing financial inclusion. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Mou Ambrose Thiik, the Chief Operations Officer at Trinity Technologies Limited, shed light on the significant impact mGurush has had on South Sudan's financial landscape. Since its inception, mGurush has been a game-changer in South Sudan by offering various mobile money services that cater to the unbanked population. Unlike traditional banks, mGurush has provided a platform where customers can easily pay their bills, school fees, and conduct various transactions using their mobile wallets. This digital revolution has bridged the gap between urban and rural areas, allowing individuals in remote regions to access financial services seamlessly. One of the key features that set mGurush apart is its cross-border money transfer capability. Thiik highlighted how mGurush has enabled users to send and receive money across borders, facilitating transactions in different currencies without the need for currency exchange. This innovation has not only simplified the process for users but has also opened up new opportunities for trade and commerce within the region. Moreover, mGurush has extended its reach beyond basic financial transactions. The mobile money service has collaborated with international NGOs to provide livelihood support to vulnerable communities. Additionally, mGurush has ventured into micro-lending for the agriculture sector, empowering farmers with access to capital for their businesses. Through initiatives like digitizing land registration, mGurush is tackling issues of land ownership and facilitating access to collateral for loans, thus promoting economic growth and entrepreneurship. Despite the challenges posed by limited government support for digitization, mGurush is actively engaging with authorities to streamline processes like salary payments for government employees. By digitizing government services, mGurush aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and equity in financial transactions. Thiik emphasized the potential for mGurush to revolutionize tax collection, enabling the government to expand its revenue base and improve service delivery to citizens. As South Sudan continues on its journey towards digital transformation, mGurush stands out as a catalyst for financial inclusion and economic development. By leveraging technology to connect communities, facilitate commerce, and empower individuals, mGurush is not only revolutionizing the way South Sudanese manage their finances but also paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future.