South Sudan hosts the Fifth edition of the Oil and Power conference in Juba that discusses the country’s pivotal regional position in supplying energy to East Africa.
The two-day conference brought together hundreds of delegates, investors, and private oil companies across the world.
Norway Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Terje Aasland who addressed the conference visually says Africa has plenty of energy and mineral resources, and South Sudan has both resources and a good basis in existing legislation.
Mr. Aasland says South Sudan has the potential to use oil revenues to benefit the entire population if governance and transparency in the sector are strengthened.
“We must build on the platform of opportunities in our countries, regions whether it’s energy, reducing emissions and developing technology toward a sustainable future, full of energy,” he said.
He further expressed the need for more renewable electricity at an affordable price. “If we solved these challenges there are great opportunities in both Europe and Africa, in Norway and South Sudan.”
The First Vice President of South Sudan, Dr. Riek Machar in his opening remark unveiled the vision of South Sudan to become an economic hub in East and Central Africa. He says the country will use oil to invest in the agriculture industry, Infrastructure, roads and power.
Dr. Machar stated that the government is working hard to increase oil production to ensure the country has good road connectivity which the nation embarked on for the benefit of every citizen.
Vice President highlighted the need for South Sudan to join the Hydro Carbon market to create sustainable power.
South Sudan Minister of Petroleum, Hon. Puot Kang Chuol says there is a need for the production of goods within the country to mitigate the repercussions of boomerang as a result of external effects such as the Ukraine war.
He announced that South Sudan has secured an investment land offered by the Republic of Djibouti.
The Executive Chairperson of the East Africa energy chamber, NJ Ayuk called for lifting of sanctions imposed on South Sudan.
The annual Oil and Power conference will conclude on Wednesday 14th September 2022.