Nilepet, South Sudan’s national oil company, celebrated a landmark achievement with the inauguration of its new headquarters in Juba, under the auspices of President Salva Kiir Mayardit. This event not only symbolizes a new era for Nilepet but also reflects the company’s commitment to playing a pivotal role in the energy sector’s transformation within the country. The completion of this project, which spanned six years and witnessed the oversight of four managing directors, culminates in a significant stride under the leadership of the current Managing Director, Bernard Amour Makeny.
The inauguration ceremony was a convergence of key players in South Sudan’s upstream petroleum segment, including international partners like CNPC, Petronas, ONGC, Sinopec, and Tri-Ocean, alongside joint operating companies such as the Greater Pioneer Operating Company, Dar Petroleum Operating Company, and Sudd Petroleum Operating Company. The presence of heads from Nilepet’s joint ventures and subsidiary firms underscored the collaborative spirit and shared vision for the future of the nation’s oil sector.
During the ceremony, Makeny delivered an inspiring message, urging a collective shift in mindset towards unity, commitment, integrity, and patriotism. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, devoid of division, segregation, or gender imbalance, in building a robust and better company. This rallying call resonates deeply with Nilepet’s aspirations to transform and elevate its operational and strategic horizons.
Nilepet, as South Sudan’s principal employer, boasting a workforce of over 2,000, plays an instrumental role in the nation’s human capacity development. The new headquarters, affectionately termed ‘the Home of Transformation’, is designed to accommodate up to 1,100 staff. It stands as a beacon of Nilepet’s expanding ambitions, particularly in the upstream sector, where the company has recently increased its stake in the Dar Petroleum Operating Company from 8% to 10%. This expansion is indicative of Nilepet’s strategic intent to deepen its involvement and influence within the energy domain.
The construction of the new headquarters is a testament to Nilepet’s dedication to fostering a competitive energy sector in South Sudan. Makeny highlighted the importance of engaging more actively with international investors and partners, underpinning this interaction with the principles of accountability, efficiency, and professionalism. This approach is critical for Nilepet’s vision to not only enhance its operational footprint but also to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of South Sudan.
The opening of the new Nilepet headquarters marks a pivotal moment in South Sudan’s journey towards establishing a sustainable and self-reliant energy sector. It signals a forward-looking approach, aiming to harness the country’s rich petroleum resources responsibly and strategically. The emphasis on capacity building, professional development, and international collaboration underscores Nilepet’s commitment to elevating South Sudan’s stature on the global energy stage.
Moreover, the event highlighted the transformative potential of the energy sector as a catalyst for national development and prosperity. By rallying the collective efforts of its workforce and leveraging partnerships with key stakeholders, Nilepet is poised to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The ‘Home of Transformation’ not only symbolizes a physical space for Nilepet’s operations but also embodies the company’s aspirations to be at the forefront of the energy sector’s evolution in South Sudan. Through fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and unity, Nilepet aims to contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth, stability, and development.
In conclusion, the inauguration of Nilepet’s new headquarters is more than a milestone; it is a testament to the resilience, vision, and ambition of South Sudan’s national oil company. As the country continues to navigate its path towards recovery and growth, Nilepet’s role in shaping a sustainable energy landscape becomes ever more critical. The ‘Home of Transformation’ not only provides the physical infrastructure necessary for this journey but also symbolizes the collective aspirations of a company and a country poised for a brighter, more prosperous future.
Source: Energy Capital & Power
