Sahara Energy raises $600m facility to boost South Sudan’s peace process

SAHARA Energy Resources DMCC, Dubai, has extended a $600 million facility to help boost resurgent hope for peace in the world’s youngest democracy.

The $600 million facility provided by Sahara Energy DMCC, a member of the leading energy and infrastructure conglomerate, Sahara Group, is expected to support the peace process and facilitate sustained economic growth and development in South Sudan.

The facility would be managed by the nation’s Central Bank under the watch of a United Nations (UN)-led committee, in line with government’s requirement and need to preserve the integrity of South Sudan’s oil resources.

Executive Director, Sahara Group, Temitope Shonubi, who spoke in a meeting with the country’s president, Salva Kiir Mayardit, disclosed that the donation was part of the firm’s effort to support sustainable development in Africa.

He also explained that it was the company’s resolve and commitment to support peace and trade integration on the continent to promote shared prosperity.

In a statement yesterday, Shonubi said Sahara Group, which is working in concert with various stakeholders, would support infrastructure development and youth empowerment in South Sudan.

His words: “Following end of conflicts and reconciliatory efforts made by the country’s leaders, we are delighted to partner with the government and people of South Sudan, as well as support regional and global initiatives geared towards transforming the nation.

Sahara Group has consistently advocated increased commitment to intra-Africa interventions through collaboration with all stakeholders. This, for us at Sahara, enhances the cause of giving wings to the aspirations of the continent’s over 1.2 billion people.”

Working through the Sahara Foundation, the company said it had renovated and upgraded the University of Juba Computer Centre in South Sudan with brand new computers, central UPS and server, air conditioners, roof mounted projector and furniture.

Sahara Foundation has also provided farm equipment to cooperatives in a bid to boost crop production and self-sustainability in the region.