SOUTH SUDAN: Oil Production Resumes In Upper Nile State As Sudan Lifts Force Majeure
By Debora Akur Chol, South Sudan
Oil production has officially resumed in South Sudan’s Upper Nile State, following the lifting of force majeure by Sudan, which had previously impacted production.
This announcement was made by South Sudan’s Minister of Petroleum, Hon. Puot Kang, during a press release on Wednesday.
Hon. Puot confirmed that oil production at Blocks 3 and 7 will begin immediately, starting tomorrow.
The resumption comes after resolving concerns related to the pipeline and security issues.
The Minister emphasised the support of international partners in making this possible.
Speaking to African TV, Hon. Puot declared that Dar Petroleum Operating Company and Bashier Pipeline Company had been instructed to resume operations without delay.
He added that discussions between the Ministries of Petroleum and Energy in both South Sudan and Sudan, along with other stakeholders, have been ongoing since last year to ensure the smooth restart of production.
Minister Puot also provided an estimate of 90,000 barrels per day of oil production for the first six months, starting on January 8, 2025.
He mentioned that payment arrangements had been made to cover the operations on behalf of the now-exited Petronas, until South Sudan establishes a new entity to take over from the Malaysian company.
These arrangements, he said, would not affect operations at Dar Petroleum Operating Company (DPOC) or other production entities.
Additionally, concerns over security and the pipeline’s safety were addressed.
A letter from BAPCO, the company responsible for the pipeline, alongside a response from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, helped ensure the lifting of force majeure and the resumption of oil operations.
This resumption marks a significant step for South Sudan’s oil industry and its energy sector, paving the way for further development and stability.