Country Profile: South Sudan
South Sudan, the world’s newest country, gained independence from Sudan in 2011 and has since faced numerous challenges, including political instability and humanitarian crises. It is characterized by a diverse population predominantly composed of Nilotic ethnic groups and has a landscape that features plains and highlands with significant natural resources, including oil. The economy heavily relies on oil exports, yet the country grapples with extreme poverty, food insecurity, and inadequate infrastructure. Governance remains fragile, with ongoing efforts to establish a stable political system amidst widespread corruption and armed conflict.
Geography
South Sudan is located in East-Central Africa, bordered by Sudan to the north, Uganda and Kenya to the south, and Ethiopia to the east. The country is landlocked, covering an area of 644,329 sq km, and features a variety of terrains, including plains and swamps, predominantly The Sudd, one of the world's largest wetlands. The nation experiences a hot climate, influenced by seasonal rainfall patterns.
- 6,018 km of land boundaries with six neighboring countries.
- The highest point is Kinyeti at 3,187 m.
- Major geographic feature: the White Nile, a significant source of freshwater.
People and Society
As of 2024, South Sudan has an estimated population of 12,703,714, predominantly comprised of Dinka (35-40%) and Nuer (15%) ethnic groups. The society is largely youthful, with a median age of 18.7 years, and a substantial percentage (42.1%) of the population aged between 0-14 years. English is the official language, and Christianity is the predominant religion (60.5%).
- 4.65% estimated population growth rate in 2024.
- Life expectancy at birth is 60.3 years.
- Urban population stands at 21.2% of the total in 2023.
Economy
South Sudan's economy is primarily oil-based, characterized as low-income, with a GDP (PPP) of $6.752 billion in 2023. The nation faces extreme poverty and food shortages, exacerbated by ongoing violence and the impacts of COVID-19. Economic potential is hindered by a lack of infrastructure and environmental fragility.
- 82.3% of the population lived below the poverty line as of 2016.
- Unemployment rate was 12.5% in 2023.
- Crude oil production reached 146,000 bbl/day in 2023.
Government
South Sudan operates as a presidential republic, with President Salva Kiir serving since independence. The governance structure includes a bicameral legislature and a judiciary that is currently undergoing reforms. Despite efforts to establish a stable government, the country has faced significant political turmoil and delayed elections.
- Independence was declared on 9 July 2011.
- The capital city is Juba.
- Expected new elections are currently scheduled for December 2026.
Military and Security
The South Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF) is the national military, supported by a police force under the Ministry of Interior. The military's focus includes internal security challenges and border disputes. The country has faced significant violence, particularly since the civil war, leading to a complex security environment.
- Estimated 150-200,000 active Defense Forces as of 2025.
- Military expenditures are around 2% of GDP yearly.
- UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has approximately 18,000 personnel deployed since 2011.
Energy
Energy access in South Sudan is critically low, with only 8.4% of the population having electricity. The country’s electricity generation primarily relies on fossil fuels, and less than 15% of urban areas are electrified.
- Total installed electricity capacity is 136,000 kW as of 2023.
- 93.2% of electricity generation capacity comes from fossil fuels.
- Total petroleum production is 146,000 bbl/day.
Environment
South Sudan faces significant environmental issues such as water pollution, deforestation, and wildlife conservation challenges. The climate is hot, with rainfall patterns impacted by seasonal shifts. The country is a party to several international environmental agreements, including those on biodiversity and climate change.
- 44.9% of land is used for agriculture as of 2023.
- Carbon dioxide emissions are estimated at 1.725 million metric tonnes for 2023.
- 1,000 sq km of land was irrigated as of 2012.
Transportation
The country has a limited transport infrastructure, including 89 airports and a small railway network of 248 km, which is non-operational.
- Railways consist of a narrow gauge, single-track line repaired in 2010.
- South Sudan has 2 heliports as of 2025.
Communications
The communication infrastructure is underdeveloped, with low internet access and fixed-line subscriptions being virtually nonexistent. Mobile cellular subscriptions have grown, though the overall usage remains limited.
- Mobile cellular subscriptions totaled 6.17 million in 2023.
- Internet usage stands at only 9% of the population.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,703,714 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 644,329 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $6.752 billion | 2023 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 12.5% | 2023 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 60.3 years | 2024 estimate |
| Electricity Access | 8.4% | 2022 estimate |
| Crude Oil Production | 146,000 bbl/day | 2023 estimate |
| Literacy Rate | Not specified | |
| Birth Rate | 36.4 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Military Expenditures | 2% of GDP | 2024 estimate |
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