Matai Muon

Matai Muon is a multi-award-winning interdisciplinary scholar and a Doctoral Researcher at the University of Oxford. His DPhil research focuses on the politics and economics of petroleum in South Sudan, examining how oil communities shape and adapt to governance amid historical neglect and oil-driven development. Prior to the DPhil, he completed an MPhil in Development Studies at the same institution, where he researched national oil policies, particularly local content regulations as applied in South Sudan. His work critically engages the paradox of Africa’s “wealthy but poor” development narrative.

Alongside his studies, Matai has gained extensive experience in international policy and development arenas. He previously worked and interned with the International Crisis Group, the Refugee Investment Network, Human Rights Watch, and undertaken research placements with the University of Oxford, and the British Institute in Eastern Africa among others. Additionally, he served on several boards including the Youth Transforming Africa, a World Bank-supported youth initiative. At the same time, he contributes to youth-led policy dialogues through Chatham House’s Common Futures Conversations and the One Young World’s Global Youth Council on Existential Threats.

Outside his professional work, Matai is dedicated to youth and women’s socioeconomic empowerment and mentors young people navigating life and career challenges.

In his free time, he enjoys reading and going to the cinema.