MTN South Sudan has announced the launch of its eSIM card (embedded SIM), a digital version that provides customers with the same functionality as a traditional physical SIM card.

MTN South Sudan is the first telecommunications firm to introduce eSIM technology in the country.

On Friday, Monzer Ali, the CEO of MTN South Sudan, met with the Director General of the National Communications Authority, Napoleon Adok Gai, to introduce the e-SIM technology to the market and onboard staff.

“Today marks another milestone in South Sudan’s telecommunications journey. As MTN, we are proud to be the first operator in the country to launch eSIM technology. This is not just about innovation; it’s about simplifying connectivity and delivering convenience to our customers,” said Ali.

In his remark, NCA Director, Adok praised MTN for introducing e-SIM technology, highlighting its ability to enhance user convenience and bolster customer security by embedding SIM functionality directly within devices.

He also urged MTN South Sudan to focus on customer support and education as key priorities.

Mr. Adok emphasized the NCA’s readiness to support MTN and other mobile network operators while advocating for greater availability of e-SIM-enabled devices to promote inclusivity.

Based on MTN South Sudan, one of the leading mobile telecommunication companies, clients also no longer need to fear damaging or losing their SIM cards—especially for frequent travelers.

“eSIM stands for -embedded SIM – It is a digital SIM card that’s built into a device. It allows you to activate a mobile plan without needing to insert a physical SIM card,” said MTN in a statement over the weekend.

The eSIM is very convenient for switching network operators at a much easier rate, said MTN but did not disclose the fees.

With eSIM technology – which is a game changer swapping network providers or having multiple plans on one device is also made easy.

“Benefits of eSIMs: Switch providers: You can change your mobile network operator without needing to order a new SIM card,” it continued “Use multiple lines: You can have multiple phone numbers on the same device.”

How to activate

To determine eSIM compatibility in your smartphone, initiate a query by dialing *#06#.

“The subsequent display of barcodes indicates whether your device’s unique eSIM identification number (EID) is accessible,” MTN noted.

South Sudan telecoms

South Sudan‘s telecommunications landscape is primarily served by two major operators: MTN South Sudan and Zain South Sudan. Both companies offer mobile telephony, broadband, and internet services across the country. Zain South Sudan, a subsidiary of the Zain Group, is the second-largest telecommunications provider in the country, with an estimated 1.05 million customers as of December 2020.