PHOTO CREDITS: Economic Cluster, Republic of South Sudan
(JUBA) – Vice President and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, held a high level meeting with national and international oil companies in Juba on 23rd and 24th September 2025.
The meeting focused on boosting crude oil production in Upper Nile State, particularly in Blocks 3 and 7, and attracting new investment in South Sudan’s petroleum sector.
Key officials at the meeting included Petroleum Ministry Undersecretary Eng. Deng Lual Wol, NILEPET Managing Director Eng. Ayuel Ngor Kacgor, and senior representatives from China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec), and South Sudan Total Oil (SSTO).
Undersecretary Lual told SSBC that the discussions aimed to adjust contracts to match the current conditions in the oil fields while making sure benefits are shared between the government, investors and local communities:
“We discussed increasing investment in Blocks 1, 2, 4, 5A, and particularly Blocks 3 and 7,” he said. “We also considered extending Field Control Agreements, increasing production capacity, and connecting Block 5A to the export pipeline.”
The talks also focused on developing local skills, transferring knowledge and creating jobs for people in oil producing regions.
South Sudan’s oil production has declined in recent years due to ageing infrastructure, conflict related interruptions and fluctuations in global oil markets. The government is now seeking investment to stabilise output and support its oil dependent economy, which relies heavily on petroleum revenues.
Vice President Bol Mel told partners that oil operations must deliver maximum benefits for South Sudanese citizens. He encouraged companies to provide employment opportunities for locals and train a new generation of skilled workers.
He emphasised that the nation’s oil wealth should fund jobs, infrastructure and opportunities for families across the country, “in line with President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s vision”.
Focus Areas for Oil Sector Development
| Block / Sector | Proposed Action | Expected Benefit for South Sudan |
|---|---|---|
| Blocks 3 and 7 | Increase crude oil production | More export revenue and jobs |
| Block 5A | Integrate into export pipeline | Faster and efficient oil transport |
| Local Content | Skills training and employment | Build local workforce |
| Infrastructure | Upgrade pipelines and facilities | Reduce production downtime |
| Employment | Create jobs for citizens | Support communities in oil regions |
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