Role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in Enhancing Oil Sector Development in South Sudan

Abstract

Purpose: This paper assessed the impact of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in capacity enhancement within the oil industry in South Sudan, targeting on themes such as local jobs, capacity enhancement, drilling equipment, digital reservoir management, pipeline, regulatory, revenue, and community interactions.

Materials and Methods: The study applied descriptive research, collecting and analyzing data from existing documents, which is a document review strategy where the empirical results of previous studies and reports are integrated. This type of design is well suited for investigation into the pre-existing documents, reports, and literature and providing detailed information relating to the research. With this method, researchers are able to gain a more detailed perspective regarding relationships, patterns and trends that can be found in already available data such that it is most suited for investigations that have to do with secondary sources and analytics of already available data

Findings: The study indicates that PPPs are valuable in increasing refinery capacities and establishing associated transportation systems. Through the use of international funding, these initiatives make it possible for internationally owned companies to invest in infrastructure projects. From the analysis, construction-related efforts involving local employment can result in a more sophisticated skilled base, this coupled with capacity building programs guarantees work for South Sudanese people in the long run. In addition, the implementation of complex drilling techniques, like horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing has significantly increased oil recovery rates. Furthermore, the combination of AI technologies with reservoir management digital tools, such as predictive analytics with 3D/4D seismic technologies boosts monitoring activities and effectiveness.

Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: The research notes the need for the optimization of existing pipeline network operations accompanied with real time monitoring systems and logics for efficient leak detection. It is also crucial to enhance the legal frameworks through inter-agency coordination and the use of international benchmarks to develop a disclosure-friendly and accountable oil industry. Besides, communities are educated about management of resources by ensuring accountability through the establishment of open data portals and routine auditing which provides reporting opportunities for revenue. Factors such as community consultations during the project planning, and grievance handling mechanisms to foster trust amongst stakeholders are necessary. The oil sector in South Sudan benefited from PPPs and the sector will develop if all government agencies, private investors and communities work together for a long term outcome measures.

Keywords: Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) → H54 (National Government Expenditures and Related Policies: Infrastructures; Other Public Investment and Capital Stock), Oil Sector → Q40 (Energy: General) / Q35 (Hydrocarbon Resources), Technological Advancement → O33 (Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes), Operational Efficiency → L95 (Gas Utilities; Pipelines; Water Utilities) / D24 (Production; Cost; Capital; Total Factor Productivity; Capacity), Governance → H83 (Public Administration; Public Sector Accounting and Audits). Transparency → D73 (Bureaucracy; Administrative Processes in Public Organizations; Corruption), Environmental Sustainability → Q58 (Environmental Policy, Regulation, and Law)