Weak governance, insecurity and limited transparency are discouraging investment in South Sudan’s mining sector despite its mineral potential, a policy analyst said, warning the country risks missing out on opportunities to develop the industry.
Boboya James Edimon, chief executive of the Institute of Social Policy Research, said the main obstacle is not the availability of minerals but the risk environment for investors.
“South Sudan’s biggest challenge is not mineral availability, it is risk perceptions, weak systems and lack of data transparency,” he said in comments shared with Radio Tamazuj.
He said investors were being deterred by regulatory uncertainty, weak institutions and infrastructure gaps, particularly in the gold sector.
“Most investors avoid mining in fragile contexts like South Sudan not because there are no minerals, but because of uncertainty and weak regulations,” Edimon said.
Edimon urged the government to strengthen the legal and regulatory framework, including finalising and enforcing clear mining laws, and streamlining licensing procedures.
He proposed the creation of a one-stop licensing authority to reduce bureaucracy and improve predictability for investors.
The analyst also cited insecurity in mining areas as a key concern, saying armed interference and illegal taxation continued to undermine investor confidence.
He called for “stable and neutral security arrangements” to protect mining sites and prevent disruptions by armed groups.
Edimon further highlighted the lack of reliable geological data, urging authorities to conduct surveys and establish a national mining database accessible to investors.
Poor infrastructure, including limited roads, electricity and fuel supply, was also constraining operations, he said.
“Improving infrastructure is critical, especially connecting mining areas to key towns and border points,” he said.
He added that investors needed stable tax regimes and protection from sudden policy changes, alongside stronger community engagement to reduce local conflicts.
“With the right reforms, South Sudan can build investor confidence and attract international mining companies,” Edimon said.
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