(PANRIENG, RUWENG ADMINISTRATIVE AREA) – The Chief Administrator of the Ruweng Administrative Area, Stephano Wieu de Mialek, has called for stronger action on environmental protection and greater investment in community infrastructure during a meeting with the Transitional National Legislative Assembly Specialized Committee on Petroleum.
The meeting, held on Tuesday, focused on the challenges faced by communities living near oil production sites and the impact of petroleum activities on the environment. The delegation from the committee, led by Hon. Khalid Abdullah Adam, visited the area to assess operations of companies working in Ruweng and to observe conditions on the ground.
Hon. Adam said the visit aimed to inspect the activities of the oil companies and to understand the situation faced by local residents. He noted that the committee intends to gather clear information that will help guide recommendations for the sector.
Chief Administrator Stephano Wieu encouraged the Greater Pioneer Operating Company to introduce stronger measures that reduce pollution and protect the surrounding environment. He said the wellbeing of the population depends on responsible practices and urged the company to consider the long term effects of its work.
He also called on oil operators to increase investment in essential infrastructure that can support communities in the area. This includes projects that improve access to services and raise living standards for residents affected by oil production.
Stephano Wieu added that a safe environment remains central to the health and safety of the people of Ruweng, stressing that environmental care must be given priority as part of petroleum operations.
The meeting formed part of a wider review of oil activities across producing regions and took place at a time when South Sudan is seeking to balance national revenue with community welfare and sustainable practices.
Ruweng Asks GPOC to Improve Environmental Measures
| Topic | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Meeting Location | Panrieng, Ruweng Administrative Area |
| Date | 18 November 2025 |
| Main Participants | Chief Administrator Stephano Wieu de Mialek, TNLA Specialized Committee on Petroleum led by Hon. Khalid Abdullah Adam |
| Purpose of Visit | Inspection of oil company operations in Ruweng |
| Key Issues Raised | Environmental impacts; challenges in oil producing areas |
| Main Request to GPOC | Introduce stronger pollution control; invest more in essential local infrastructure |
| Key Quote | “Safe environment means safe lives.” |
| Target of Recommendations | GPOC (Oil Operating Company) |
| Overall Focus | Environmental protection, community welfare, oil sector accountability |