Powering the Future: South Sudan's Electricity Access Challenge
With access among the world's lowest, off-grid and mini-grid power is moving to the centre of planning.
Electricity remains one of South Sudan's deepest development gaps. According to the World Bank, the country's electricity-access rate is around 5.4% — among the lowest in the world.
The approach
World Bank-supported work emphasises isolated grids and off-grid solutions, including solar mini-grids, alongside strengthening the institutions that plan and regulate the sector — rather than relying on a single national grid.
Why it matters
Power underpins everything from clinics and schools to the digital payments and small businesses driving financial inclusion. Closing the access gap is, in effect, a precondition for much of the country's other development.
Maridian will track electrification projects and their real-world reach.
Peter Lomuro covers national development, infrastructure and civic life in South Sudan.
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