Eden Commercial Bank on Monday officially opened a branch in the Western Equatoria State capital, Yambio, to expand banking services, improve financial access, and support economic growth for traders, businesses, and the local community.
Speaking during the launch, Kimango Charles Ezbon, the bank’s branch manager in Yambio, highlighted the bank’s journey since 2012 and its commitment to financial inclusion.
“Eden Commercial Bank is a national bank that has steadily expanded across South Sudan,” he stated. “Today, we are proud to strengthen our presence in Western Equatoria, bringing financial services closer to the people.”
Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director of Eden Commercial Bank South Sudan, Engineer John Moro Michael, confirmed that the bank now operates three branches in Western Equatoria State—Yambio, Maridi, and Nambi—and pledged continued expansion to improve banking services.
“These branches are fully operational, delivering essential financial services to the people of Western Equatoria,” he said. “Moving forward, we will continue expanding our reach and improving banking services to meet the needs of businesses and individuals.”
While many residents welcomed the new bank branch, they raised concerns over high banking charges and the need for accessible loans.
Toby Adams, a resident of Yambio, expressed excitement about the bank’s launch but urged the management to lower transaction fees and improve affordability.
“We are happy that Eden Bank has opened a branch here, as it brings services closer to the people. Instead of keeping huge sums of money at home, we can now deposit safely. However, the bank must reduce its tariffs to make services affordable for everyone,” he said. “Many young people are jobless. The bank should consider hiring residents and introducing accessible loans to help small businesses grow.”
Similarly, Moses Samson, another Yambio resident, urged the bank to remain reliable and avoid past financial failures like Ivory Bank, which collapsed in 2019, denying customers access to their money.
“We need a stable banking system. A bank should not suddenly shut down and disappear with people’s savings. Many of us suffered when Ivory Bank closed, and up to now, we cannot access our funds,” he lamented.
Western Equatoria State Acting Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, who officiated the launch, underscored the crucial role of banks in economic growth and national development.
“This is a celebration, not just for Western Equatoria but for the entire country. Banks play a vital role in economic growth, peacebuilding, and development. Financial institutions like Eden Commercial Bank will contribute to stabilizing South Sudan’s economy and fostering prosperity,” he stated. “The more we engage with banks, the more we benefit. Keeping money in banks ensures security—unlike storing cash at home, which exposes it to theft or damage. Banking also enables access to loans, helping traders expand their businesses.”
Badagbu further urged Eden Commercial Bank to prioritize farmers by providing them with financial resources to boost food production and trade.