Sudan is actively courting Russian energy companies, offering them access to 20 oil wells located in secure areas of the country amid the ongoing armed conflict between the regular army and the rebel paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
This move, according to Sudanese Energy and Oil Minister Mohieddin Naeem Muhammad Saeed, aims to provide an alternative to Western energy firms.
The announcement follows a recent visit by the minister to Russia, where agreements for strategic partnerships with several major Russian energy companies were reached.
The Sudanese government has outlined ambitious energy plans, intending to:
Sign agreements with Russia to significantly expand energy cooperation.
Develop hydroelectric and thermal power generation at the Merowe Dam, with the aim of supplying the plant with 120 barrels of fuel per day;
Modernize the Roseires and Sennar dams.
Construct new, modern refineries in the coming months.
Undertake gas exploration in eastern Sudan.
Minister Saeed highlighted the strategic importance of Russia's Red Sea presence for leveraging advanced gas technologies.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to rebuild Sudan's energy sector and strengthen its infrastructure. Furthermore, Sudan also hopes to revive discussions with Russia concerning the construction of a floating nuclear power plant once the current internal conflict subsides.