Sudan’s oil industry has suffered a 94% collapse since South Sudan’s independence in 2011. Finance Minister Gibril Ibrahim said the country’s output dropped from 500,000 barrels per day to just 30,000 barrels in a decade and half.
Ibrahim revealed the figures during the Russian Energy Week Forum in Moscow, where delegates from 84 countries gathered to discuss Africa’s future in global energy.
“Before the secession of South Sudan, our reserves stood at about 5 billion barrels. Now, we are left with only 1.5 billion,” Ibrahim said.
The minister explained that production could rise to 180,000 barrels per day if Sudan partners with investors who have the right technology and expertise. He said attracting new partners is now key to reviving the country’s oil economy.
Data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) shows that Sudan’s crude exports fell by 84% between 2,000 and 2023. The decline, he noted, came after the secession took away most of the oil-rich fields in the south.
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While Sudan lost much of its oil wealth, South Sudan became dependent on Sudan’s pipelines to move crude to international markets through Port Sudan on the Red Sea.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan has now placed both countries’ oil revenues at risk. Pipeline security and export routes have become critical issues for the two neighbours.
Last week, Sudan and South Sudan signed a new agreement to protect vital oil infrastructure, including pipelines and export terminals.
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The deal aims to safeguard energy cooperation and prevent further disruptions.
Ibrahim said Sudan is determined to rebuild its oil industry and attract global partners. He described energy revival as the country’s path to economic recovery and regional stability.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
