New fintech partnership targets liquidity gaps, unlocks economic opportunities ahead of World Refugee Day

By Samuel Yuang

In a major step toward expanding financial access, Inkomoko South Sudan has launched a strategic partnership with local fintech firm Digicash, aimed at delivering reliable money transfer and payment services to entrepreneurs, refugees, returnees, internally displaced persons, and host communities in Juba and Bor.

The collaboration comes as South Sudan continues to face widespread liquidity shortages, leaving many without access to formal banking or safe ways to send and receive money. By combining Inkomoko’s expertise in supporting small businesses with Digicash’s extensive agent network and digital payment solutions, the initiative seeks to break down longstanding barriers to financial inclusion.

Meeting communities where they are

According to Inkomoko, many of its clients had already requested access to Digicash services, citing the company’s strong local presence and proven ability to operate effectively in cash-constrained environments.

“Inclusion means meeting people where they are,” said William Ngabonziza, Managing Director of Inkomoko South Sudan. “Digicash’s community-based network aligns perfectly with our mission to bring financial services to those who have traditionally been left behind.”

The partnership is part of Inkomoko’s broader REframe campaign, which challenges the view that displacement-affected communities are only recipients of aid — instead framing them as viable, growing economic markets.

Data from the organization highlights this potential. Since starting work in South Sudan, Inkomoko has invested over $`1.2 million, supported 4,406 businesses, helped create 3,340 jobs, and recorded an average 54 percent revenue growth among the enterprises it assists.

Across East and Central Africa, the impact is even larger: over `$37.5 million invested, more than 120,000 entrepreneurs supported, and roughly 1.2 million people positively affected. In 2025 alone, 92 percent of businesses supported remained operational, 81 percent reported higher incomes, and over 44,000 jobs were created.

World Refugee Day

The new collaboration will be formally highlighted during a special World Refugee Day event hosted by Inkomoko. The gathering will bring together private sector leaders, financial institutions, development partners, and policymakers to discuss inclusive investment and strengthen ties with refugee-led and local community businesses.

“Financial inclusion is a win for everyone — it empowers individuals and strengthens the entire economy,” said Martin Oluoch, Chief Operations Officer at Digicash. “This partnership lets us expand our reach and bring trusted services to entrepreneurs who need them most.”

A model for sustainable growth

Both organizations describe the partnership as a model for private sector engagement in South Sudan, showing how local solutions can address economic challenges while building resilience. As humanitarian funding declines, the initiative offers a promising example of how innovation and investment can create lasting livelihoods and stronger local economies.