28/04/2025
Date: April 28th, 2025
Farewell Message
Dear Honorable Leadership, Distinguished DGs, and Esteemed Colleagues,
I would like to begin by expressing my deepest gratitude to His Excellency Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan, for the trust and confidence he bestowed upon me by granting me the opportunity to serve as the Director General of the Petroleum Authority within the Ministry of Petroleum.
As I formally conclude my tenure, I am profoundly honored to extend my sincere appreciation to the Ministry Leadership, Technical Advisors, National Consultants, and the entire staff for the exceptional collaboration, unwavering trust, and invaluable support accorded to me throughout my service.
It has been an extraordinary privilege to serve the Ministry and the nation in this capacity, entrusted with the vital responsibility of advancing the governance, regulation, and strategic development of South Sudanโs petroleum sector. Together, we embraced numerous opportunities and achieved significant milestones, including the successful resumption and stabilization of production activities in Blocks 3 & 7, the strengthening of institutional frameworks, the advancement of strategic partnerships, and the reinforcement of the sectorโs regulatory environment.
While we rightly celebrate these achievements, we also encountered substantial challenges. Yet, through resilience, professionalism, and a spirit of collective endeavor, we overcame them and sustained progress.
As I hand over the responsibilities to my distinguished colleague, Eng. Joseph Ezbon, I do so with full confidence in his technical expertise, institutional experience, and leadership acumen. I am certain that under his stewardship, the Petroleum Authority will continue to grow.
In this regard, I would like to highlight key strategic challenges that warrant continued attention and focus:
The strategic and regulatory management of the decommissioning process;
The delicate coordination required for the transfer of Petronasโ shares to safeguard operational continuity and national interests;
Production increment and flow assurance across all Blocks;
The comprehensive ex*****on of the Environmental Audit;
Strengthening engagement with foreign partners to foster sustainable investment amidst evolving geopolitical and financial landscapes;
The licensing of new exploration blocks, balancing technical, legal, and strategic considerations to attract responsible investors while upholding national priorities;
Preparation for the expiration of the Exploration and Production Sharing Agreements (EPSA) for Blocks 3 & 7 in February 2027, requiring extensive coordination with partners to ensure transitional arrangements, resource stewardship, and sectoral stability.
Although my journey in this particular role concludes, my commitment to the development and prosperity of South Sudanโs petroleum sector remains unwavering. I remain ready and willing to contribute in any capacity deemed necessary toward the continued advancement of our beloved nation.
In closing, I extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you for your dedication, professionalism, and the spirit of partnership that we have shared. May the Ministry of Petroleum and the Petroleum Authority continue to flourish in their noble service to the people of South Sudan.
I convey my sincere gratitude once again and wish you all continued success, growth, and prosperity in your respective roles and future endeavors.
Yours faithfully,
Eng. Lual Chol Dak
Outgoing Director General of Petroleum Authority
Ministry of Petroleum
Republic of South Sudan
