The mandate of the South Sudan Media Authority is set out in the Media Authority Act, 2013. The Act states that the Media Authority is responsible for:
Issuing and renewing broadcasting licenses.
Enforcing media laws and regulations.
Investigating and addressing complaints against media outlets.
Providing training to journalists and media workers.
Promoting an independent and pluralistic media.
Protecting the public interest in the media.
In addition to these specific duties, the Media Authority is also tasked with developing and implementing a national media policy, monitoring the media landscape, and reporting on its findings to the government and the public.
The Media Authority is an autonomous body, meaning the government does not control it. This ensures that the Media Authority can carry out its duties independently and impartially.
The Media Authority's mandate is broad and ambitious. It is tasked with regulating the media industry, promoting media freedom, and protecting the public interest. The Media Authority has the potential to play a significant role in promoting democracy and good governance in South Sudan.