South Sudan–Russia Hydropower MoU Back in Focus
A hydropower cooperation agreement signed by South Sudan and Russia in August 2024 remains unimplemented nearly two years later, according to South Sudan’s Ministry of Energy and Dams. The deal followed earlier high-level contacts between President Salva Kiir and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Energy Ministry Reviews Delayed Cooperation Framework
The file resurfaced this week after Minister of Energy and Dams Agok Makur met South Sudan’s Ambassador to Russia, Chol Tong Mayay. The ministry said the meeting reviewed the delayed framework and explored “how the country can benefit from Russia’s accumulated expertise as a leading country in the field of energy and dams.”
Officials Confirm Agreement Has Not Been Implemented
In the same statement, the ministry said the two officials examined “the possibility of reviving a memorandum of understanding signed between the two countries in 2024, which has not been implemented.” The wording amounts to an explicit acknowledgement that the MoU has remained dormant.
Diplomacy Set to Resume with Russian Ambassador
The ministry added that the discussion also “touched on arranging a meeting between the Minister and Aleksandr Kosmodemiyanskiy, the Russian ambassador to the country, soon.” The planned contact signals an effort to restart direct engagement around the shelved cooperation package.
From Kiir–Putin Talks to RusHydro Agreements
The unimplemented MoU is linked to a broader understanding reached during a meeting between Kiir and Putin in Moscow in late September 2023, where both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in infrastructure and energy. In August 2024, Russia’s hydroelectric company RusHydro signed agreements with South Sudan on hydropower and integrated water resources management.
What Has Not Been Disclosed So Far
Sputnik reported that the agreements were signed during a RusHydro delegation visit, with South Sudan’s Ministry of Energy and Dams and the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation signing for the government (Sputnik). However, no implementation framework, financing plan, or construction timeline has been made public, leaving the deal inactive.
Why Hydropower Matters for South Sudan’s Power Supply
South Sudan is among the least electrified countries globally, with power generation largely reliant on ageing diesel generators. Hydropower is often presented by officials and sector observers as a route to meet demand, reduce electricity costs, and support economic recovery, provided projects move from agreements to delivery.
Re-Engagement Effort and Expectations
The ministry’s latest communication suggests Juba is seeking to re-open talks with Moscow to unlock progress on the partnership. For now, the public record points to renewed diplomatic outreach rather than operational steps, and the practical outcomes will depend on follow-through by the parties involved.