S. Sudan’s oil production showing signs of recovery: minister
February 9, 2015 (JUBA) – South Sudan’s oil ministry said production is starting to recover for the first time since conflict erupted more than a year ago, severely disrupting exploration.
“The production has increased from 160,000 barrels a day to around 168,000 barrels a day in Upper Nile where we are currently producing,” Dhieu said.
Meanwhile, oilfields in neighbouring Unity state remain closed, although Dhieu said production would resume once peace is restored in the area.
Unity state’s oilfields fell under rebel control following the eruption of violence in mid-December 2013 after forces in the area declared allegiance to former vice-president Riek Machar and drove out soldiers loyal to president Salva Kiir.
Oil production in December 2013 stood at 240,000 bpd, but sharply dropped to 160,000 bpd amid safety concerns for oil workers.
Dhieu said although production has been suspended, government troops have since regained control of Unity’s oilfields.
“When the full security and peace come to that area (Unity state), preparation for the commissioning will start,” he said.
“There is some little destruction [made to oil facilities] when the rebels attacked that refinery and we do not have any assessment as we speak,” he said when pressed by reporters to elaborate on when full production is expected to resume.
South Sudan’s economy is almost entirely dependent on oil, which accounts for over 98% of government revenue.
Dhieu was flamed by US ambassador to South Sudan Twining Charles as he spoke briefly with reporters at the ministry.
Twining said the US will continue to provide advisory services to the ministry.
However, the senior diplomat declined to take questions from reporters or detail the type of assistance that is being extended to South Sudan’s oil ministry.
(ST)