(BANGKOK, THAILAND) – South Sudan has held talks with the World Bank Group to strengthen development cooperation, advance economic reforms and support the country’s growth agenda, according to a statement from the Bank of South Sudan.
The meeting took place on 13th October on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Group Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Thailand.
South Sudan’s delegation was led by Minister of Finance and Planning Hon. Athian Diing Athian, alongside Bank of South Sudan Governor Hon. Dr. Addis Ababa Othow.
The delegation met with World Bank Group Executive Director Dr. Zarau Wendeline Kibwe and other officials.
During the meeting, Minister Athian set out the government’s priorities, including peace, preparations for elections and sustainable economic growth.
He reported progress in public procurement reforms and efforts to combat money laundering.
He called for stronger cooperation in information and communication technology, healthcare, agriculture and food security.
“The Ministry of Finance and Planning and the Bank of South Sudan are working together to strengthen the economy,” Minister Athian said.
World Bank Group Executive Director Dr. Zarau Wendeline Kibwe welcomed the delegation’s briefing and reaffirmed the institution’s readiness to support South Sudan’s development priorities.
Dr. Kibwe serves as Executive Director of the World Bank Africa Group, overseeing 22 African nations.
The meeting was attended by World Bank Alternate Executive Director Lonkhululeko Phumelele Magagula, Undersecretary for Planning Hon. Benjamin Ayali Koyongwa and other officials from the Ministry and the Bank of South Sudan.
The IMF and World Bank Group Annual Meetings are being held in Bangkok from 12th to 18th October 2026, bringing together representatives from 191 member countries.
The meetings follow South Sudan’s launch of a 10 year strategic development plan in September 2025, which aims to build a prosperous, productive and innovative society while consolidating peace and security.
