Simon Chol Martin Mirich, Director of Crude Oil at the Ministry of Petroleum in South Sudan seeks foreign direct investment to revamp infrastructure and build a pipeline network. Energy Capital & Power met with Mirich at the Libya Energy and Economic Summit (LEES) 2024, which convened in Tripoli on January 13-14.
What are you hoping for in terms of cooperation with the Libyan government or the National Oil Corporation? Are there any capability transfers, technological advancements, or financing that you can talk about?
Our presence at LEES 2024 was geared towards highlighting South Sudan’s capabilities. The primary objective was to strengthen both our global and regional connections, with a particular focus on Libya. South Sudan, emerging from a decade of conflict, sees vast opportunities beyond oil and gas, including midstream and downstream infrastructure. We seek foreign direct investment, particularly in pipelines and refining, to diversify our economy.
What can South Sudan, as a developing oil nation, learn from an established energy market like Libya?
We anticipate knowledge and technology transfer, fostering bilateral relations in oil and gas. Currently, we export crude oil, but we aim to diversify our products with future developments. Partnering with Libya and other influential nations is crucial, recognizing that opportunities and risks are inherent in engaging with the global community.
Could you elaborate on new infrastructure projects?
With Port Sudan as our current outlet, historical in Sudan and South Sudan’s oil industry, we look to new potential in the southern part of the country. Aging and underutilized oil fields will necessitate tie-in pipelines to resource-rich fields, alongside regional and continental projects like Chepoti and Lahoo Lovset, contributing to economic integration.
What strategies are you using to become more attractive to foreign direct investors?
In the post-Covid era, South Sudan, with its untapped resources and diverse sectors, becomes an appealing destination for foreign direct investment. The focus extends beyond industries to infrastructure and mining, demanding substantial investment. Our attractive policies aim to lure investors interested in contributing to South Sudan’s economic growth. South Sudan, abundant in natural resources beyond oil and gas, aims to attract investors by showcasing opportunities in forestry, hydropower, wildlife, and tourism.
Do you have a message for potential investors who would like to join SSOP 2024?
We extend a warm invitation to investors, particularly in the oil sector, as South Sudan moves beyond exporting crude to refining and petrochemical production. Our flexible investment policies present real opportunities for those interested in contributing to the country’s growth. South Sudan welcomes investors, including our African brothers from all parts of the continent, to join us in shaping a prosperous future.
Taking place in Juba from June 25-28, SSOP 2024 will be held in official partnership with the country’s Ministry of Petroleum, confirming South Sudan’s commitment to promoting development through petroleum. To find out more information regarding SSOP 2024, visit www.southsudanoilpower.com.
