![Newly appointed undersecretary in the Ministry of Mining, Dr. Matiok Santio Akuei [photo by Sudans Post]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG_7555.jpg?resize=2000%2C1394&quality=89&ssl=1)
Speaking during his reception on Monday in Juba, Dr. Matiok disclosed that South Sudan is endowed with untapped mineral resources.
“South Sudan is endowed with vast mineral resources, which include gold, copper, zinc, lead, rare earths, uranium, manganese, iron, diamonds, and precious minerals,” he said.
Akuei also outlined an approach focusing on policy reforms, sustainable practices, infrastructure development, and human capital enhancements.
“However, the potential of this sector remains lightly untapped. And that is the major challenge to our country and the economy of the Republic of South Sudan,” he said.
He said the policies would be environmentally friendly which he believed would be accomplished by working closely collectively with mining companies.
“Promoting a mining practice, which minimizes the effects of our ecosystem and prioritizes the rehabilitation of mining areas.”
He said he will ensure community engagement and a local benefit strategy to uplift and improve the welfare of entire communities.
“I will work toward attracting responsible investment by actively engaging with the potential investors and showcasing the vast mineral wealth of our nation.”
He said he would ensure openness and good governance to eradicate corruption in mining sector.
“Let us work together to build a better South Sudan as we lay the foundation for a bright future for South Sudan.”
For his part, Martina Gama Abucha, the Minister of Mining, lauded the outgoing undersecretary and advised the incoming undersecretary to avoid what he called ‘unnecessary meetings’ with individuals seeking financial assistance.
“There’s a lot of work for him to do. His tasks include administration. But there’s one thing I might say this: incoming Under-Secretary, you’re actually the Under-Secretary now; we should not be bogged down with unnecessary meetings,” said Abucha.
Meanwhile, the outgoing undersecretary of the Ministry of Mining, Dr. Comas Pitia, said during his tenure, they were able to secure land to construct a seismologic center in Rajaf.
He added that there will be a South Sudan geological survey authority, which will absorb some graduates.
“People are saying that this ministry is not contributing to the economy. Yes, but soon the efforts are there, and soon we will see how much the ministry will be contributing,” said Comas.
