South Sudan warns of spillover effects as Sudan’s escalating war continues

July 12, 2024 (Juba) – South Sudan on Friday expressed concern that the escalating conflict in neighbouring Sudan could spill over to its border, noting that fighting has intensified near the border and could cause further instability.

Upper Nile State Governor James Oduhok Oyai told Sudan Tribune that while the security situation in the state is currently under control, ongoing conflict in Sudan’s Sennar and West Kordofan states has led to a large number of displaced persons seeking shelter in the border areas of South Sudan.

“The influx of Sudanese returnees and refugees is putting a strain on local resources,” Oyay explained. “These people need water, shelter and food, which exacerbates our existing humanitarian challenges.”

Authorities in other border states, including Northern Bahr el Ghazal, Unity and Ruun, have also expressed concerns about the possible consequences of a spillover of conflict. However, the military and security services have downplayed fears of fighting spreading to the key Heglig oil field, citing an agreement with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and oil operating companies to avoid damage to infrastructure.

South Sudan’s economy has been affected by the conflict, which relies heavily on oil exports through Sudan. Despite assurances in June by Sudan’s energy minister that a damaged pipeline would be repaired soon, the ongoing conflict continues to disrupt a key source of revenue for South Sudan.

The Heglig oil field, located on the border between the two countries, remains under the control of the Sudanese army. The RSF rebelled against the Sudanese army and the ruling army in mid-2023 and currently controls most of West Kordofan.

Efforts are underway to repair a vital pipeline responsible for transporting 60% of South Sudan’s crude oil. The pipeline broke down in February 2024, severely disrupting the country’s finances, exacerbating the economic situation and causing a sharp drop in the value of the country’s currency.

Sudan’s Minister of Energy and Petroleum, Muhyiddin Mohammed Naim Mohammed Said, expressed optimism during a recent visit to Nile State, saying that the repair work was close to 80%. The General Manager of the pipeline operator BAPCO reiterated their commitment to work around the clock to complete the repair work and restore this important economic lifeline between the two countries.