Environment Minister Mabior Garang has urged oil companies to work hand-in-hand with the government to tackle pollution in oil-producing areas, saying South Sudan’s development must not come at the expense of public health and environmental safety.
Speaking after a presentation on oil-pollution remediation by Nexus Group, Mabior said the Ministry of Environment is not in conflict with the petroleum sector but is pushing for responsible production that safeguards communities in Unity State, Ruweng and other affected areas.
“We need the revenues from oil just as much as we need a clean and healthy environment,” Mabior said. “The Ministry of Environment is not an enemy of the national oil companies — we are on the same team.”
He stressed that protecting the environment is essential for the welfare of the population and the future of the country, calling for stronger cooperation between government agencies and petroleum operators.
“We must be united,” he said.
*Hot in Juba*
