By Matik Kueth
The government of South Sudan has established a high-level committee to review crude oil sales and marketing activities, Dr. Santino Ayuel, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Petroleum, announced at a press conference on Friday.
The move, he said, aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, and economic governance in the country’s most critical sector, which continues to face both internal inefficiencies and external pressures.
“The purpose of this committee is to undertake a comprehensive review of our crude oil sales and marketing activities, as well as the commitments of the Ministry of Finance and Planning in liaison with the Ministry of Petroleum,” Dr. Ayuel said.
He added, “The objective is to ensure that our systems are transparent, efficient, and aligned with our national priorities.”
The committee was formally established under Ministerial Order No. 04-2026, signed by the Minister of Finance and Planning Salvatore Garang.
The order mandates a thorough assessment of how crude oil is allocated, marketed, and managed financially, with a focus on identifying gaps and improving coordination between key institutions.
Ayuel stated that the review will cover critical areas, including cargo allocations, pricing mechanisms, payments received, and financial obligations tied to oil revenues, such as loans and advances secured against crude.
“We are taking a step back to carefully assess our current practices, identify weaknesses, and strengthen coordination between institutions. Our focus will be on improving value and enhancing accountability in the sector,” he said.
The composition of the committee was read out by Eng. Lual Chol Dak, Director General of the Petroleum Authority, will serve as the committee’s rapporteur.
The body brings together senior officials from both the Ministry of Petroleum and the Ministry of Finance and Planning, alongside representatives from the Bank of South Sudan and legal and financial experts.
Chaired by the Undersecretary for Petroleum, the committee is expected to deliver its findings and recommendations within 90 working days, although provisions allow for an extension if necessary.
According to the ministerial order, the review aligns with provisions of the Transitional Constitution and the Petroleum Act, as well as ongoing public financial management reforms aimed at promoting responsible governance and supporting post-conflict recovery.
“The goal is to support socio-economic reconstruction, encourage resilience and economic recovery, foster inclusive growth, and advance sustainable development,” the order stated.
Oil remains the backbone of South Sudan’s economy, accounting for the vast majority of government revenue.
However, the sector has long faced criticism over a lack of transparency, opaque contracts, and heavy borrowing against future oil production.
In recent years, economic challenges, fluctuating global oil prices, and governance concerns have intensified calls for reform.
Experts have been calling for economic reforms and improved oversight of oil sales and revenue management, noting that proper utilization is crucial for stabilizing the economy and restoring public trust.