South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Simon Deng
The Civil Society Coalition on Natural Resources has engaged at a high level, raising serious concerns among the local population regarding the delayed disbursement and lack of transparency in managing the 3 percent community share of oil revenues.
“This delay is hurting our schools and health centres. Teachers and doctors are leaving because they are not being paid, and the children are the ones suffering,” said the Civil Society Coalition on Natural Resources last week in a statement.
“The community calls for accountability and development, demands full transparency and public reporting on the 3 percent oil revenue share, and ensures commissioners have sufficient terms to implement and complete their plans,” it said.
The Melut community has urged the establishment of more schools, health centres, and training centres for youth, including a fully equipped computer centre, coupled with increased scholarship opportunities and community-led selection processes.
The meeting, organised by the Civil Society Coalition on Natural Resources (CSCNR), attracted 41 participants, including local authorities, community leaders, women, and youth representatives.
During the event, participants expressed growing frustration over the delay in releasing the constitutionally mandated 3 percent share allocated to oil-producing communities. They cited the absence of clear records on how this share is calculated and how much has actually been disbursed.
Five schools have been partially constructed, and four others rehabilitated, with over 100 teachers recruited and relocated to Melut, along with regular salaries, housing, transport, and food provided, alongside scholarships awarded to aspiring nurses and midwives studying in Juba.
The oil revenue share in Melut County has been used for renovations of Melut Civil Hospital, the New Friendship Hospital in Paloch, purchasing ambulances and medical supplies, including training, hiring specialist doctors, and other health workers.
CSCNR has committed to organising a follow-up meeting with the CDC steering committee in Melut to track the implementation of the 3 percent fund and ensure community priorities are reflected in future development efforts.
