History
South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011, becoming the world's newest nation. The country’s history is deeply marked by decades of civil war and political instability in Sudan, particularly in the south. The first Sudanese Civil War lasted from 1955 to 1972, and the second from 1983 to 2005. The Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005 led to a referendum in 2011, where the people of South Sudan voted overwhelmingly for independence. However, the country soon faced its own internal conflicts, including a brutal civil war that began in 2013, which only officially ended with a peace deal signed in 2018.
Geography
South Sudan is located in the northeastern part of Africa, bordered by Sudan to the north, Ethiopia to the east, Kenya and Uganda to the south, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the southwest, and the Central African Republic to the west. The country is landlocked and is characterized by vast savannas, wetlands, and the Nile River, which runs through much of the country. The climate is tropical, with seasonal monsoons in the south and semi-arid conditions in the north.
Tribes & People
South Sudan is home to more than 60 ethnic groups, the largest of which are the Dinka, Nuer, and Shilluk. Other significant groups include the Bari, Zande, and Murle. The majority of South Sudanese are Christian, particularly in the southern and central parts of the country, although there are also indigenous faiths and Muslims, especially in the north. The country’s diverse tribes speak various languages, with Arabic and English being the official languages, though many indigenous languages are also widely spoken.
Society
South Sudanese society is largely rural, with most people living in villages and engaging in subsistence farming or livestock herding. Family and community are central to social life, with traditional leadership structures playing an important role in local governance. Despite its cultural richness, South Sudan faces challenges such as poverty, lack of infrastructure, limited access to healthcare, and a high illiteracy rate. Education and healthcare systems are still under development, with most services concentrated in urban areas.
Government
South Sudan is a republic with a presidential system of government. The President of South Sudan is both the head of state and head of government. The country’s governance has been marred by internal conflict and challenges in establishing stability since independence. The 2013-2018 civil war, between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and opposition groups led by former vice president Riek Machar, caused widespread devastation. A peace agreement in 2018 led to the formation of a unity government in 2020, though challenges in governance and security remain.
Economy
South Sudan's economy is heavily reliant on oil, which makes up more than 50% of the country’s GDP and over 90% of its exports. However, years of conflict and the disruption of oil production have severely affected the economy. Agriculture also plays an important role, with crops like sorghum, millet, and cassava being grown, along with livestock herding. South Sudan faces significant economic challenges, including poverty, high unemployment, and inflation. The ongoing conflict and lack of infrastructure have hindered economic development.
Energy
South Sudan’s energy sector is largely reliant on oil production, with most of its energy needs coming from oil-derived electricity. The country also faces a power deficit, with limited access to electricity, especially in rural areas. Plans to expand the energy sector include investment in renewable energy sources such as hydropower and solar energy, but progress has been slow due to the political and economic challenges the country faces.
Communications
South Sudan’s communications infrastructure is underdeveloped, with limited access to internet and telecommunications services, especially outside major cities. However, mobile phone networks have expanded, and mobile money services are growing in importance. Despite this, many rural areas still lack access to basic communication services, and the country is working towards improving its infrastructure for both communication and information dissemination.
Transportation
Transportation in South Sudan is underdeveloped, with a limited road network that is often in poor condition due to the country’s ongoing challenges with conflict and neglect. Air travel is crucial for accessing remote regions, with several international airports in cities like Juba, the capital. The Nile River is an important waterway for transport, though the country lacks a significant railway system. The transport sector faces serious challenges, including insecurity, poor infrastructure, and limited resources for development.
Transnational Issues
South Sudan faces several transnational issues, including border disputes with Sudan, ethnic conflicts within its own borders, and the humanitarian crisis caused by internal displacement and famine. The country’s stability is crucial for regional security in East Africa, and South Sudan has received support from international organizations and neighboring countries to address its challenges. The South Sudanese government has also faced criticism for human rights abuses, and efforts to achieve peace and development continue to be a focal point of international aid and diplomacy.
Jokes
Why did the South Sudanese man bring a ladder to work?
Because he wanted to climb the ranks in life!
Other Interesting Facts
- South Sudan is home to the Sudd, one of the world’s largest wetlands, located in the Nile River basin.
- The White Nile, a major tributary of the Nile River, flows through South Sudan, providing vital water resources for the country.
- South Sudan has a youthful population, with more than 70% of the population under the age of 30, which presents both challenges and opportunities for development.