Kiir signs major Bills to reform Cyber Security, Audit Systems, and Wildlife Conservation

2026-02-18 - 16:27

JUBA, South Sudan (Eye Radio) — President Salva Kiir Mayardit has signed into law three landmark pieces of legislation: the Cyber Crime and Computer Misuse Act 2026, the Southern Sudan Audit Chamber Act 2011 (Amendment) Act 2026, and the Wildlife Conservation and Protected Areas Act 2026. According to a statement by the office of the president, this legislative milestone is expected to fundamentally reshape South Sudan’s digital governance, financial accountability, and environmental management. Information Minister Ateny Wek Ateny clarified that the Cyber Crime and Computer Misuse Act serves as a vital tool for national security in the digital age. The Act provides a legal framework for offenses related to computer systems, allowing for the timely detection, prevention, and prosecution of cybercrimes. By establishing clear protocols for investigation, the law aims to protect both state infrastructure and private citizens from digital threats. In a move to strengthen fiscal transparency, the Audit Chamber Amendment Act 2026 introduces refined procedures for auditing the accounts of all National Government Ministries, institutions, agencies, and corporations. Minister Ateny emphasized that this Act ensures rigorous reporting on any entity where public funds are received, invested, or spent, effectively tightening the oversight of the nation’s financial resources. Furthermore, the Wildlife Conservation and Protected Areas Act 2026 establishes a new regulatory framework to govern the nation’s natural heritage. This legislation focuses on the sustainable management of protected areas and the conservation of wildlife resources. The Minister noted that this framework is designed to protect South Sudan’s natural assets for the long-term benefit of its citizens, ensuring that environmental resources are managed responsibly. Together, these newly approved laws represent a significant step toward modernizing the country’s legal and administrative systems. By addressing the complexities of the digital frontier, the necessity of financial integrity, and the preservation of natural resources, the government aims to build a more secure and accountable foundation for the future of the Republic.