Mineral-rich Ikwoto County, Eastern Equatoria State. |File Photo|.
Thursday, 28 August 2025
Nine Russian geologists, accompanied by heavily armed security personnel, have been observed conducting a survey in the area for the past three days, camping at Alliance Primary School.
The residents of Owiny-Ki-Bul, including Okeny Ben Francis, have expressed alarm and suspicion as they were not formally informed about this mining exploration.
While an authorization letter from the Eastern Equatoria State Governor’s office was reportedly shown, no copy was provided for verification, which has heightened community concerns.
The community members are particularly uncomfortable with the presence of heavily armed security personnel in their village without prior notification.
Katire Mountain is known for its deposits of gold, copper, and black stones, with artisanal mining currently supporting local livelihoods.
Magwi County Commissioner, Pole Pole Benjamin Olum, confirmed the presence of the Russian geologists, stating that they are conducting a government-backed feasibility study in line with the Russia–South Sudan bilateral agreement.
He added that the survey is being undertaken in collaboration with traditional leaders, payam authorities, and other stakeholders, and that the findings will be shared upon completion of the study.
Over the past few years, Russian and Chinese influence in South Sudan has become increasingly apparent. This has coincided with a decline in human rights, an increase in institutional corruption, and persistent armed violence across the nation.
According to political analyst John Osfaldo Samuel, the South Sudanese government has been awarding oil and mining contracts to Chinese and Russian companies in exchange for diplomatic protection at the United Nations Security Council.
Osfaldo stated, “The regime is giving back what they agreed with China and Russia. South Sudan has been desperate for the lifting of sanctions and arms embargo, as well as the diplomatic protections at the UN Security Council. To get cover from China and Russia, South Sudan has to give out its oil and minerals for its survival.”
In 2023, Mayen Wol Jong, the former Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, indicated South Sudan’s strong interest in engaging Russian companies to construct an oil pipeline. This pipeline would help bridge the country’s petroleum shortages, in addition to the Unity Oil Refinery, which was destroyed during the 2013 conflict.
Furthermore, South Sudan has entered into an “oil-for-road agreement” with the China-based Shandong H-Speed Construction Company, committing to provide 30,000 barrels of crude oil per day for road infrastructure.
