From AllAfrica

South Sudan’s new finance minister, Aggrey Tisa Sabuni, has pledged to raise non-oil revenues from $14.8 million to $20.4 million (70 to 90 million South Sudanese pounds) within 100 days of taking office.

Speaking to the media, he said the target could be achieved by forging ahead with economic reforms and improving relations with donors.

Sabuni, who appeared relaxed and happy, held several high-level positions at the ministry before being appointed presidential adviser on economic affairs.

The official, who served as the under-secretary at the same ministry prior to his appointment into an advisory position in 2012, said he would continue with the economic reforms which his predecessor had put in place.

“Drive on economic reforms will continue. Reductions in non-essential expenditures across the board will remain in place on items such as travel, vehicles and supplies. At the same time the drive to improve our payroll procedures and improve accountability will continue, by ensuring that only workers who are working get paid. These cuts, though painful, are crucial to ensure that we have sufficient funds to maintain security and provide basic service during this difficult period”, he said.

Sabuni also reaffirmed president Salva Kiir Mayardit’s commitment to ensure that tax revenue is utilized efficiently and transparently to improve the lives of ordinary South Sudanese people.

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“The government under the leadership of our president Salva Kiir Mayardit, will continue to deepen tax reforms and modernization in order to eliminate wastage and corruption. We will work together with the relevant institutions to ensure proper implementation of the public financial management act and also ensure that [the] procurement bill is passed to enhance transparency and accountability, Sabuni told reporters.

Read more at AllAfrica.