South Sudan and Sudan have taken significant steps to resume the flow of South Sudan’s crude oil through a pipeline that runs across Sudan, a crucial move for South Sudan’s economy, which heavily relies on oil revenue.
According to a statement from South Sudan President Salva Kiir’s office on September 16, 2024, Sudanese engineers had completed the technical preparations needed to restart oil production.
This announcement followed a meeting in Juba between Kiir and Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.
“Engineers from South Sudan are expected to visit Sudan in the coming weeks to assess the readiness of the facilities and prepare for the resumption of production,” the statement noted.
South Sudan’s Finance Minister, Marial Dongrin Ater, added during a press conference that there had been a breakthrough, and more information would be made public soon.
The pipeline, which is critical for transporting South Sudan’s oil exports, was damaged in February during the conflict between Sudan’s army and the Rapid Support Forces, halting oil exports.
The disruption led to significant consequences, including environmental damage and rising food prices in Sudan.
The oil exports are a vital revenue source for both nations, with Sudan receiving a transit fee for transporting South Sudan’s crude oil.
Prior to the conflict, South Sudan was exporting about 150,000 barrels of crude oil daily through Sudan.
