JUBA — Zain South Sudan has rolled out new mobile offers aimed at lowering the cost of calls and data, as high internet prices continue to limit access to online services and slow the development of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) across South Sudan.
The launch comes as government institutions, development partners, and telecom operators increasingly acknowledge that limited and expensive internet access remains one of the main barriers to digital finance, e-government platforms, mobile money usage, and other public digital services.
The event held in Juba on Friday showcased Zain’s flagship JUNUBI bundles, which the company describes as the most affordable mobile offer currently available in South Sudan. Designed to address affordability challenges, the JUNUBI bundles include unlimited calls to all networks and some of the lowest-priced data packages in the country.
“JUNUBI is simply the best value offering in South Sudan,” said Zain Chief Commercial Officer Mo Mursi. “It is designed for the people, ensuring no customer has to choose between value and quality.”
Digital policy analysts say affordability is central to DPI adoption, as digital public services — including mobile money, digital taxation systems, health platforms, and education portals — depend on reliable and affordable internet access to function.
In addition to the core bundles, JUNUBI introduces new add-ons aimed at maximising usage for cost-conscious customers. Sabahak Zain offers discounted morning call rates, while Favorite Number allows subscribers to call one selected contact at the lowest rate offered by the company.
Zain also announced an upgrade to its Flex Tamam Shedid bundles, increasing their value by 25 percent at no additional cost. The move comes amid rising demand for bundled voice and data services in an economy affected by inflation, cash shortages, and declining household purchasing power.
For smartphone users, Zain is introducing a 6GB Welcome Bonus, providing 1GB of free data each month for six months on newly activated devices. The company says the offer is designed to lower the entry barrier for smartphone adoption, which remains essential for accessing many digital services.
Zain said it is also enhancing incentives for its commercial partners, including higher SIM activation commissions for point-of-sale operators, distributors, and freelance agents, helping expand connectivity in underserved areas.
To ensure service reliability, Zain continues to expand and upgrade its 4G network, with new sites and infrastructure improvements in Wedweil, Gumrok, Fullulz, and Maban — locations where limited coverage has constrained digital access.
“Our entire product portfolio is powered by a modern, robust 4G network,” said Operations Director Daniel Loro. “We remain committed to delivering strong, reliable connectivity to every community.”
Experts say reducing data costs and improving coverage are critical if South Sudan is to build inclusive digital public infrastructure, as high internet fees continue to exclude large segments of the population from digital finance and government services.
Operating in South Sudan since 2011, Zain said the rollout of new offers reflects a broader push toward affordability, innovation, and nationwide connectivity, reinforcing the role of telecom operators as foundational enablers of the country’s digital ecosystem.
