By Kei Emmanuel Duku
South Sudan and the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) have announced plans to construct a new oil pipeline from South Sudan to Djibouti, passing through Ethiopia. This initiative aims to boost South Sudan’s oil export potential.
The agreement was reached following a meeting between South Sudan President Salva Kiir and CNPC President Dal Houliang during President Kiir’s visit to China for the China-Africa Summit.
The two leaders discussed reforms in the South Sudan oil industry and agreed to build a new oil refinery and distribution network.
President Kiir emphasized his government’s commitment to unlocking South Sudan’s oil potential and improving energy security.
He assured CNPC of the government’s support for the safety of oil workers during the construction and operation of the pipeline.
CNPC, which holds a significant stake in the country’s largest oil operator, expressed its commitment to working with South Sudan and local teams on infrastructure projects and oil exploration.
South Sudan’s Undersecretary of Petroleum, Dr. Chol Thon, reiterated the government’s focus on green energy initiatives as part of its sustainable development plans.
The new pipeline project comes at a crucial time for South Sudan, which halted oil exports earlier this year due to a conflict in Sudan that disrupted the existing pipeline.
The conflict has significantly impacted South Sudan’s economy, which heavily relies on oil revenue.