Paloich oil field in Melut County, Upper Nile State - Photo credit: courtesy

The Ministry of Petroleum has announced what it described as “significant progress” in the oil sector, reporting a 16.3 percent increase in crude oil production across major oil fields, even as the country continues to face severe economic challenges.

Speaking during the recent welcoming ceremony of the newly appointed Minister of Finance and Planning in Juba, the Undersecretary in the Ministry of Petroleum, Santino Ayuel Langar, said efforts are being made to expand output to support the struggling economy.

“I would also like to inform you and the general public that in our institution, the Ministry of Petroleum, we are making significant progress in our oil sector,” Ayuel said.

He said production at the Dar Petroleum Operating Company (DPOC) has increased from 90,000 barrels per day to 102,000 barrels per day. Output at the Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) rose from 48,000 to 55,000 barrels per day, while the Sudd Petroleum Operating Company (SPOC) increased from 9,000 to 14,000 barrels per day.

“That is an increment of progress and we will continue to insert every effort to ensure that oil production, which is the backbone of our economy, increases,” he added.

Ayuel further projected that the country could reach a national production target of 250,000 barrels per day by next year if the current momentum continues.

The announcement comes at a time of rising economic pressure, including high market prices, delayed civil servant salaries, a weakening local currency, and growing public frustration over the cost of living.

Despite the reported increase in oil output, concerns remain over how petroleum revenues are managed amid ongoing hardship and strained public services. Oil continues to be the main source of national revenue.