National Emergency: Oil Shutdown Underscores Urgent Need for Security & Diversification
JUBA, 1 September 2025 — For Immediate Release
South Sudan Youth Reforms (SSYR) expresses grave concern over the reported shutdown of South Sudan’s oil exports following drone strikes in Sudan. This crisis is a stark reminder that our nation’s dependence on oil as the sole economic lifeline places every South Sudanese at risk.
⚠️ A National Emergency
With over 90% of government revenue tied to oil exports through Sudan, the halt in flows threatens to paralyze the economy, deepen poverty, and worsen humanitarian suffering. This is not just an economic problem—it is a national emergency.
💪 The Case for Stronger Security
The repeated targeting or disruption of our lifelines by external actors underscores the urgent need to invest in national security and border protection. Without a secure environment, no sector—be it oil, fisheries, or agriculture—can thrive. South Sudan must ensure sovereignty is protected and civilians and infrastructure are safe.
🌾 Beyond Oil: Investing in Our People
- Scale up modern agriculture (seeds, irrigation, storage, feeder roads) to guarantee food security and reduce imports.
- Strengthen the fisheries sector with cold-chain, market access, and cooperative financing to create youth jobs.
- Develop local agro‑processing and fisheries value chains to empower entrepreneurs and stabilize prices.
📣 SSYR’s Call
- Treat the oil shutdown as a wake‑up call for rapid economic diversification.
- Mobilize resources to fortify security, especially around borders and strategic infrastructure.
- Launch national programs that support farmers, fishermen, and youth businesses to build resilience against future shocks.
South Sudan’s destiny must not be dictated by pipelines and foreign wars. Our survival depends on investing in people, diversifying the economy, and protecting sovereignty.