Government Suspends New Mining Licenses
On 30 October 2025, Mining Minister Martin Gama Abucha ordered an immediate suspension of new Exploration and Small-Scale Mining Licenses in Western Bahr el Ghazal, effective 1 November (Sudans Post).
The ministry says the pause will stay in place until reliable geological data becomes available and overlapping claims can be avoided.
Geological Survey Set for January 2026
Preparatory teams are already mobilised for a national geological survey scheduled to launch in Western Bahr el Ghazal on 28 January 2026.
Officials describe the exercise as South Sudan’s most ambitious effort yet to map its mineral wealth and inform future investment decisions.
Seven-Year Agreement with Chinese Partner
The survey forms part of a seven-year Integrated Systematic Geological Survey agreement, signed on 24 December 2023 with China’s Geological Exploration Technology Institute for US$70 million.
Funding and logistical setbacks delayed the project’s planned 2024 start, especially in remote Raja County, believed to contain eight million tons of copper.
Private Sector Briefing and Chamber Plan
On 8 November 2025, the ministry gathered all license holders in the state to explain the suspension and rally support for the survey.
Stakeholders also discussed creating a Chamber of Mines to coordinate industry interests and deepen policy dialogue.
Expected Impact on Investment Landscape
Minister Abucha argues that a credible, data-driven profile of mineral resources will attract technologically capable investors and boost revenue.
Analysts note that pausing licenses now could prevent future disputes, creating a more predictable environment once survey results are published.