The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Dr. Joseph Geng Akech, on Tuesday tabled the Mining Act 2012 (Amendment) Bill 2025 before the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA), marking the beginning of a far-reaching reform process aimed at reshaping South Sudan’s mining sector.
Presenting the Bill during its first reading, Dr. Geng said the proposed amendments seek to align the legal framework governing the country’s mineral resources with the requirements of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, the Constitution, and international best practices.
The Bill introduces 84 amendments across 26 chapters and includes two additional chapters, bringing significant changes to governance, transparency, and oversight in the mining industry.
Among the most notable reforms is the establishment of three key institutions, the South Sudan Geological Survey Agency, the Mining Authority, and the South Sudan Mining Corporation, which will be responsible for exploration, regulation, and commercial operations.
These entities are expected to enhance transparency, strengthen accountability and ensure South Sudan derives greater economic benefit from its natural resources.
The amendment also reaffirms that all mineral resources belong to the people of South Sudan, with the national and state governments serving as custodians on their behalf.
It seeks to tighten the licensing regime, introduce clear compliance standards, and promote responsible mining practices.
Dr. Geng stated that the bill was drafted “in accordance with the revitalized agreement, the constitution, and best practices,” emphasizing that the reforms aim to modernize the sector and position it as a sustainable engine for national development.
Following its presentation, the Bill was committed to the Committee of Mining for detailed scrutiny and further consultation before it proceeds to the second reading.
