Unveiling the Network of South Sudan’s Corrupt Empire: Obac William Olawo’s Key Associates and Assets

The US sanctions list has shed light on the extensive corruption network led by Obac William Olawo, a South Sudanese businessman accused of fueling the conflict while embezzling public funds meant for humanitarian assistance.

As investigations progress, new information has emerged, revealing Olawo’s associates and their involvement in corruption as well as his vast portfolio of assets both within and outside South Sudan.

One notable associate linked to Olawo is Gregory Vasili, a former governor and army general, who has also faced US sanctions for his role in perpetuating the conflict and engaging in corrupt practices.

This association signifies the entangled web of influential figures collaborating in South Sudan’s murky underworld.

Additionally, another key player in this corrupt empire is Israel Ziv, a retired Israeli general who has also faced US sanctions. Ziv is alleged to have provided weapons and military training to both sides of the conflict, further exacerbating the dire situation in South Sudan.

Further investigations have uncovered the involvement of companies associated with Olawo in the web of corruption.

Golden Wings Aviation, Crown Auto Trade, and Africana General Trading Ltd. are among the entities owned or controlled by Olawo that have been sanctioned by the US for their role in facilitating the conflict and engaging in corrupt practices.

As the corruption case against Olawo unfolds, the scope of his illicit activities becomes increasingly alarming. One of the most egregious instances involves the procurement of food items for the South Sudanese army in 2016.

It is alleged that Olawo inflated prices and delivered rotten food, leading to food poisoning and malnutrition among the soldiers. This not only compromised the welfare of the army but also siphoned significant amounts of public funds into Olawo’s personal fortune.

His ill-gotten wealth has allowed Olawo to amass an impressive portfolio of properties both domestically and internationally. In South Sudan, he owns a mansion in Juba and a hotel in Malakal, among several plots of land.

Outside the country, Olawo possesses a villa in Kampala, Uganda, a penthouse in Nairobi, Kenya, and even a bank account in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, showcasing his international footprint.

By exposing the intricate network of corruption, and showcasing Olawo’s associations and extensive holdings, these revelations aim to shed light on the depth of corruption that has plagued South Sudan. It is crucial that these findings serve as a catalyst for investigations and legal actions, not only to hold Olawo and his associates accountable but also to address the systemic issues that have allowed such corruption to flourish in the country.