In the complex landscape of Sudan’s conflicts, a significant development has emerged: the resumption of pipeline operations that were halted due to a rupture caused by ongoing hostilities between the Sudanese Army (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This interruption occurred in April of last year, during a period marked by immense upheaval that displaced millions and plunged many into famine. It’s a stark reminder of the interplay between conflict and the basic needs of local populations.
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A recent letter dated March 16, 2024, detailed the circumstances of the rupture. Located in RSF-controlled territory near the frontline in White Nile State, the incident was exacerbated by BAPCO-operated pump stations running out of fuel – a situation directly linked to the nearby military operations. For many, this raises a troubling question: how can essential infrastructure be safeguarded in a region where military actions dictate the tempo of everyday life?
The acting Energy Minister, Mohyeldin Naeem, shed light on the pipeline’s setback, attributing it to what he described as a “gelling incident.” This term refers to a phenomenon where crude oil thickens, complicating the flow and further complicating matters during conflict. Imagine, if you will, an intricate system of pipes and valves struggling under the weight of external chaos, much like a delicate orchestra drowned in discord.
Thankfully, not all news is bleak. The state broadcaster, SSBC, proudly announced that the damaged section of the pipeline has now been repaired, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s economy. It’s an achievement celebrated not just in government offices but also among citizens who depend on the stability of oil exports for their livelihoods.
Pipeline Repairs Restore Exports
As the golden fluid of oil begins to flow once more, one can’t help but reflect on the significance of these exports. Mohamed Lino, a technical adviser at South Sudan’s Ministry of Petroleum, expressed his relief: “This is good news because we’ve faced difficulties since last year due to the loss of crude oil flow.” His words resonate deeply with those who understand the weight of economic dependency—where oil is not merely a resource, but the lifeblood of an economy.
The repair of the pipeline did not happen in isolation. It followed intricate negotiations involving the Sudanese government, the RSF, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), and various foreign stakeholders. These groups control the territories through which the pipeline flows, pointing to a tangled web of interests where each agreement signifies hope or despair for those on the ground. How often do we consider the negotiations that take place behind closed doors? It’s a process filled with complexity, yet it culminates in outcomes that can change lives on a vast scale.
It’s important to note that oil exports through this pipeline are not just vital for South Sudan; they generate an impressive 90% of the nation’s foreign exchange earnings. For Sudan, the pipeline serves a different function; the government earns transit fees that are essential for their budget. This symbiotic relationship offers a glimmer of potential cooperation amidst a backdrop of conflict, yet it also underscores the critical nature of stable energy supplies in the region.
Recent reports indicate that South Sudan had been sending between 100,000 to 150,000 barrels of crude oil daily to Sudan prior to the rupture, illustrating the extensive reliance on this pipeline. But beneath these numbers lies a deeper issue: the impact of the pipeline damage was not merely economic. Analysts have pointed out that it led to environmental contamination and rising food prices, exacerbating an already dire hunger crisis affecting millions. As the phrase goes, “You cannot pour from an empty cup.” When the flow of vital resources is disrupted, the ripples are felt far and wide, impacting communities struggling to survive.
In retrospect, our understanding of energy and conflict must evolve. As we navigate the complexities of war and peace, one must ponder—what can be done to ensure that essential resources are maintained amidst strife? Can we envision a future where, instead of being the focal point of conflict, oil and energy become bridges towards cooperation and stability? These are not just questions for policymakers but for all of us to consider.
While today we celebrate the resumption of pipeline operations, it serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges facing Sudan and South Sudan. The story is far from over. To quote an old adage, “The road to recovery is long and winding.” But perhaps, with cooperative efforts and a commitment to peace, the communities affected can find their way toward a brighter future—a future free from disruptions that have marred their lives for too long.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
