South Sudan Boosts Oil Exploration to Revive Economy Amid Challenges

News Ghana, Latest Updates and Breaking News of Ghana, News Ghana, https://www.newsghana.com.gh/south-sudan-boosts-oil-exploration-to-revive-economy-amid-challenges/South Sudan has finalized an agreement with joint oil operating companies to intensify exploration and drilling activities across prospective fields, aiming to increase production and stabilize its fragile economy.
Undersecretary of Petroleum Deng Lual Wol confirmed the pact followed high-level talks in Juba chaired by Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel, uniting government officials and oil firm executives.
Key resolutions include forming a petroleum ministry-led task force to accelerate maintenance of critical oil fields, expanding local workforce development, deploying advanced technology to combat well issues like water infiltration, and drilling untapped prospects near existing sites. The move builds on January’s resumption of production in Blocks 3 and 7 (Upper Nile), targeting 90,000 barrels daily initially. Wol confirmed partners agreed to extend operations beyond the blocks’ 2027 contract expiry, stating, “We have reached an agreement to continue operating in South Sudan.”
The strategy faces headwinds, including neighboring Sudan’s conflict disrupting export routes and Petronas’ recent exit due to operational hurdles. Blocks 3 and 7, operated by Dar Petroleum (a consortium including state-owned Nile Petroleum), remain central to the revival plan as Juba seeks energy independence amid regional instability.
News Ghana, Latest Updates and Breaking News of Ghana, News Ghana, https://www.newsghana.com.gh/south-sudan-boosts-oil-exploration-to-revive-economy-amid-challenges/