South Sudan Facts

by countryaah · Published June 20, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

South Sudan, Central Africa State; 619 700 km², 11 million residents (2019).South Sudan became an independent state on July 9, 2011 and includes ten states that were previously part of Sudan. South Sudan borders in the north to Sudan, in the east to Ethiopia and Kenya, in the south to Uganda and Congo (Kinshasa) and in the west to the Central African Republic. The capital is Juba (772,400 residents, 2014).

As a result of many years of fighting and large population movements, the statistical data for South Sudan is very uncertain.

South Sudan National Flag

Country facts

Republic of South Sudan / Republic of South Sudan
Country abbreviation: SS
Area: 619 700 km²
Population (2019): 11.0 million residents
Capital: Juba
Main languages: English, Arabic
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Salva Kiir Mayardit (President)
Per capita GDP (2015): US $ 731
GNI per capita (2015): US $ 820
Currency unit: Sudanese pound
Currency code: SSP
Country number (telephony): 211
Internet Domain Name: ss
Time difference compared to Sweden: +2
National Day: July 9 (Independence Day, 2011)

Nature

Highest mountain: Kinyeti (3,187 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 18 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.4%; birthrate 35 ‰, deathrate 11 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (42%), 15-64 (55%), 65- (3%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 56 years, women 59 years
Infant mortality (2019): 65 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 20 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.388 (place 187 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 20%
Most populous city (2014): Juba (772,400 residents)

Geography of South Sudan

Location and Size

South Sudan is a landlocked country located in the northeastern part of Africa. It is bordered by Sudan to the north, Ethiopia to the east, Kenya and Uganda to the south, the Central African Republic to the southwest, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the southeast. South Sudan covers an area of approximately 619,745 square kilometers (238,174 square miles), making it the 10th largest country in Africa. The country is rich in natural resources, with abundant agricultural land, oil reserves, and rivers, but remains one of the poorest and least developed countries in the world.

The capital of South Sudan is Juba, located in the south-central part of the country. Juba serves as the political, administrative, and economic hub, though the country’s lack of infrastructure and ongoing conflict has hindered the growth of other cities and towns. South Sudan’s location, with access to both the Nile River and fertile plains, offers significant potential for agricultural development, but these resources have been underutilized due to decades of conflict.

Topography and Natural Features

South Sudan’s landscape is diverse, consisting primarily of flat plains and swamps, with a number of mountainous regions in the east. The country is part of the East African Rift Valley, a major geological feature, and is home to several rivers, the most important of which is the White Nile, a major tributary of the Nile River. The White Nile runs through the country from south to north, and its tributaries, including the Bahr el Ghazal and the Sobat rivers, provide vital water resources.

The western part of the country is characterized by savannahs and woodlands, while the eastern regions, especially the areas near the Ethiopian border, are marked by mountainous terrain. The country’s climate and geography create a mixture of tropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands, particularly in the Sudd wetlands, one of the largest wetlands in the world, which lies in the central region of South Sudan.

South Sudan’s topography plays a significant role in both its agricultural potential and its challenges. The extensive lowlands, coupled with the regular seasonal flooding of rivers, make large parts of the country prone to flooding, particularly during the rainy season.

Climate of South Sudan

Tropical Climate

South Sudan experiences a predominantly tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The climate varies slightly depending on the region, but the country as a whole experiences high temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). The temperatures can soar higher, especially in the northeastern and central regions, where the climate becomes more arid and hot.

The rainy season generally lasts from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in the central and southern regions. During this time, the country experiences frequent thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, particularly in the central plains and along the Nile River. In the northern and more desert-like areas, rainfall is much lighter and less consistent. The wet season provides essential water for crops and agriculture, but it also brings flooding, which can damage infrastructure and displace populations.

The dry season, which runs from November to April, is characterized by hot, dry winds that blow in from the Sahara Desert. This period is marked by low humidity and little rainfall. In this season, temperatures can become extreme, especially in the northeastern regions where temperatures may exceed 40°C (104°F). The combination of heat and limited water availability makes the dry season particularly difficult for the local population, especially in rural areas where water sources can become scarce.

Rainfall and Agriculture

Rainfall patterns in South Sudan play a crucial role in shaping the country’s agricultural cycles. The country’s farming largely depends on the seasonal rains, which are essential for growing crops such as sorghum, millet, and maize. However, erratic rainfall and periodic droughts make agricultural production unpredictable, contributing to food insecurity.

South Sudan is prone to both drought and flooding. During the wet season, the country experiences substantial flooding, particularly in low-lying areas near rivers, including the Sudd wetlands. These floods can disrupt farming, infrastructure, and settlements, while droughts during the dry season can further exacerbate food shortages. Climate change has increased the unpredictability of weather patterns in South Sudan, making the challenges for farming and water management even more pressing.

People of South Sudan

Population and Demographics

South Sudan has an estimated population of around 11 million people, although exact figures are difficult to obtain due to the ongoing instability and lack of comprehensive census data. The population is ethnically diverse, with more than 60 different ethnic groups. The largest ethnic groups include the Dinka, Nuer, Shilluk, and Bari, along with numerous smaller groups scattered across the country. These ethnic groups have distinct languages, customs, and cultural traditions, contributing to the country’s rich cultural mosaic.

The majority of South Sudan’s population resides in rural areas, with around 20% of the population living in urban centers such as Juba, Wau, and Malakal. The population is young, with a large proportion under the age of 30, reflecting the country’s high birth rates. However, South Sudan has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the world, contributing to a low life expectancy and overall health challenges.

The country’s history of conflict and displacement has caused significant internal migration, with many people being forced to leave their homes due to violence and instability. The effects of war have been particularly severe in the country’s border regions, where ethnic and political conflict has displaced millions.

Language and Religion

The official language of South Sudan is English, a legacy of the country’s colonial history under British rule. However, English is not widely spoken in rural areas, where many people rely on their native languages for daily communication. The most widely spoken languages in South Sudan include Dinka, Nuer, Bari, and Shilluk, among others. Each ethnic group typically has its own language, and many South Sudanese people speak multiple languages.

Religious practice in South Sudan is diverse, with the majority of the population adhering to Christianity, particularly Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. Christianity was introduced to South Sudan during the colonial era, and it is deeply integrated into the culture of many South Sudanese people. The second-largest religion in the country is indigenous African beliefs, with a significant portion of the population practicing traditional spiritual practices. Islam is also practiced, particularly among some of the ethnic groups in the north and among Sudanese immigrants.

Education and Health

Education in South Sudan faces significant challenges due to years of conflict, lack of infrastructure, and limited resources. While the country has made efforts to expand access to education, many children, particularly in rural areas, still do not attend school. Schools are often poorly equipped, with a shortage of teachers, learning materials, and adequate infrastructure.

The adult literacy rate is low, especially among women, reflecting the social challenges that many communities face. The government, along with international organizations, has made strides in improving access to education and building schools, but the pace of development remains slow. Higher education opportunities are limited, with only a few universities and vocational institutions in the country.

Healthcare in South Sudan is similarly underdeveloped. The country has one of the highest maternal and child mortality rates in the world, and access to healthcare services is limited, especially in rural areas. The country suffers from a shortage of medical professionals, equipment, and healthcare infrastructure. Diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, cholera, and HIV/AIDS are widespread, and ongoing conflict further strains the healthcare system.

Economy of South Sudan

Key Industries

South Sudan’s economy is heavily reliant on oil, which accounts for over 90% of the country’s exports and government revenues. The country has significant oil reserves, mainly located in the Upper Nile region, and oil production has been the main driver of economic activity since independence in 2011. However, the oil sector has been affected by conflict, disruptions in production, and fluctuations in global oil prices.

Agriculture also plays a critical role in South Sudan’s economy, with subsistence farming providing livelihoods for the majority of the population. Crops such as sorghum, millet, maize, and cassava are cultivated, but agricultural production is often affected by seasonal flooding, drought, and ongoing conflict. Livestock farming, particularly cattle, is also an important sector, particularly for the Dinka and Nuer ethnic groups.

The country has potential for tourism, with its rich cultural heritage, wildlife, and natural beauty, but the ongoing instability and lack of infrastructure have hindered the development of this sector. South Sudan also has some mineral resources, such as gold and other precious metals, though these resources have not been fully explored or developed.

Economic Challenges

South Sudan’s economy faces numerous challenges, including the devastation caused by civil war, a lack of infrastructure, and high levels of corruption. The country’s reliance on oil means that fluctuations in global oil prices have a significant impact on the economy. The collapse in oil production during periods of conflict, along with the global decline in oil prices in recent years, has exacerbated the country’s economic difficulties.

Poverty is widespread, with a large portion of the population lacking access to basic services such as clean water, healthcare, and education. Inflation is high, and the currency, the South Sudanese pound, has lost significant value since its introduction. The country also faces challenges in rebuilding its infrastructure, particularly in the aftermath of years of conflict and internal displacement.

The prolonged conflict, coupled with a lack of access to markets, infrastructure, and capital, has hindered economic development and made it difficult to diversify the economy away from oil. South Sudan’s underdeveloped agricultural sector and limited industrial base further contribute to its economic challenges. Despite these obstacles, the international community continues to provide humanitarian aid, and there are efforts to promote economic recovery through peacebuilding and development projects.

Government of South Sudan

Political System

South Sudan is a federal republic with a presidential system of government. The President of South Sudan is both the head of state and head of government, holding significant executive powers. The President is elected for a five-year term, though elections have been delayed due to ongoing political instability and conflict. The government is divided into three branches: the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary. However, the political system remains highly centralized, with significant power concentrated in the hands of the President.

The country’s National Legislative Assembly is a bicameral body, consisting of the National Legislative Council and the Council of States. The assembly is tasked with passing laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the actions of the executive branch. Political parties in South Sudan are divided primarily along ethnic lines, with rival factions often reflecting the interests of different groups.

South Sudan’s political system has been marked by a history of internal conflict, particularly between the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and opposition groups. The 2013-2018 civil war, which had significant ethnic and political undertones, further deepened political divisions. The peace agreement signed in 2018 and the formation of a transitional government in 2020 marked some progress toward political stability, but challenges remain.

Legal System

The legal system in South Sudan is based on a combination of customary law, Sharia law, and statutory law derived from colonial and post-independence governance. The legal system faces significant challenges, including a lack of infrastructure, training, and resources. The judiciary is underdeveloped and often lacks independence, and the rule of law is weak, particularly in rural areas. This has led to widespread corruption and impunity, further undermining the effectiveness of the legal system.

South Sudan has made efforts to establish a legal framework based on democratic principles, but the country’s ongoing instability and internal conflict have hindered progress. The justice system, particularly in conflict zones, is often dominated by local militias or traditional authorities, rather than the formal legal institutions.

Culture of South Sudan

Arts and Music

South Sudan has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by the diverse ethnic groups and traditions that have shaped the country. Music and dance play an essential role in South Sudanese culture, with each ethnic group having its own distinct forms of musical expression. Traditional instruments such as drums, flutes, and stringed instruments are used in ceremonies, storytelling, and celebrations.

South Sudanese music often serves as a form of social commentary, addressing issues such as war, peace, and daily life. The country’s music scene is evolving, with younger generations embracing contemporary genres such as hip hop, reggae, and pop, while also maintaining traditional forms of musical expression. Music and dance are integral parts of weddings, festivals, and other communal events, bringing together communities and fostering social cohesion.

Festivals and Traditions

South Sudanese culture is deeply tied to religious and ethnic traditions. The country celebrates a variety of festivals, with major religious holidays such as Christmas and Eid al-Fitr being widely observed by the Christian and Muslim communities, respectively. These festivals are marked by family gatherings, feasts, and celebrations, and serve as important times for strengthening community bonds.

Traditional celebrations and rituals, including weddings, initiations, and harvest festivals, are also significant in South Sudanese culture. Many of these events are centered around music, dance, and communal feasts, with elaborate ceremonies that reflect the cultural and spiritual practices of different ethnic groups.

Cuisine

South Sudanese cuisine is diverse, reflecting the various ethnic communities and regions of the country. The staple food is sorghum, which is often prepared as porridge or flatbread. Maize, millet, and cassava are also common staples, and meat, particularly goat, lamb, and chicken, plays an important role in the diet. Fish, especially in the river regions, is also an important protein source.

Traditional South Sudanese dishes are often simple but hearty, with stews, soups, and rice-based dishes being common. Asida, a porridge made from sorghum or millet, is frequently eaten with stews made from meat, vegetables, or lentils. The country’s cuisine also features a variety of fruits, such as mangoes, papayas, and bananas, which are grown in more fertile regions.

South Sudanese food culture emphasizes communal eating, with families and communities sharing meals together. The cuisine is influenced by both indigenous African and Arab culinary traditions, blending spices, herbs, and cooking techniques to create unique dishes that reflect the country’s cultural diversity.