A young state with a turbulent history
South Sudan is Africa’s youngest country and gained independence from Sudan on 9 July 2011. This separation was the result of a long and bloody civil war that lasted more than two decades. The peace process began with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) of 2005, which paved the way for the 2011 independence referendum. Around 98.8 % of voters then voted in favour of secession from the north. Independence marked a historic turning point, but the challenges facing the new state were enormous: from state-building and institutional development to overcoming internal conflicts.
Since independence, South Sudan has experienced a turbulent political development. In 2013, a power struggle between President Salva Kiir and his former deputy Riek Machar escalated into a renewed civil war that lasted until 2020. A new peace agreement, the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), brought a fragile stabilisation, but implementation remains difficult. Currently, South Sudan faces the task of consolidating its political structures and establishing sustainable peace processes.
Despite these challenges, South Sudan offers unique opportunities for travellers, researchers and investors—from untouched natural landscapes to cultural treasures. At the same time, the country is an example of the complex dynamics of post-colonial state-building in Africa.
Geographical location and natural resources
South Sudan is located in northeast Africa and borders six countries: Sudan to the north, Ethiopia to the east, Kenya, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the south, and the Central African Republic to the west. With an area of 619,745 km², South Sudan is roughly twice the size of Germany. The population density is around 9.1 inhabitants per km²—one of the lowest in the world. Most inhabitants live in rural areas, while cities such as the capital Juba continue to grow.
The country is traversed by the White Nile, which rises in the south and flows through the capital Juba. Other significant rivers include the Sobat and the Bahr al-Ghazal. The landscape is characterised by vast savannahs, swamps—particularly in the Sudd region, one of the world’s largest wetlands—and forested hills. The north has a tropical climate with pronounced dry and rainy seasons, while the south is more humid. This geographical diversity influences not only biodiversity but also the population’s way of life.
South Sudan is rich in natural resources, particularly oil, which is the country’s main source of revenue. Around 75 % of Sudan’s oil reserves lie in South Sudan. However, dependence on this raw material has also led to conflicts, as oil revenues have often been unevenly distributed. In addition to oil, there are deposits of gold, diamonds and timber, whose sustainable use remains a challenge.
Political and social developments
South Sudan faces major political and social challenges. Despite the 2020 peace agreement, ethnic tensions and power struggles remain a central issue. The government under President Salva Kiir is attempting to involve the various ethnic groups—including the Dinka, Nuer and Shilluk—in the political process. However, reports of human rights violations and violence persist in some regions.
South Sudan’s economy is heavily dependent on oil production, which accounts for around 90 % of state revenues. Inflation is high, and poverty is widespread. According to the World Bank, around 82 % of the population lived in extreme poverty in 2022. Infrastructure is poorly developed, and access to education and healthcare is limited in many regions. International aid organisations play an important role in supporting the population, but the humanitarian situation remains tense.
The population of South Sudan comprises more than 60 ethnic groups speaking over 60 languages. The largest groups are the Dinka and the Nuer, who traditionally live as pastoralists. The country’s culture is shaped by oral traditions, music and dance. At the same time, South Sudan is a land of contrasts: between traditional ways of life and modern challenges, between resource wealth and poverty.
Relevant information for visitors and those interested
South Sudan is a country with high potential for adventure and discovery. Nature and wildlife: South Sudan is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes and rare bird species. National parks such as Boma National Park or the Southern National Park offer unique safaris away from tourist crowds. Culture and traditions: Visits to local communities, traditional festivals and markets provide insights into the country’s diverse cultures. Safety and travel advice: Current travel advice from the German Federal Foreign Office should be consulted before any trip. South Sudan is not a typical tourist destination, but for travellers seeking to venture off the beaten path, the country offers unforgettable experiences.
For researchers and investors, South Sudan offers opportunities in areas such as agriculture, renewable energy and infrastructure. However, the framework conditions are often difficult, and local partners are essential. The country is seeking ways to use its resources sustainably and improve the living conditions of its population.
Further resources
- Economy in South Sudan: Resources, challenges and opportunities
- Culture and society in South Sudan: Ethnic groups, traditions and modern developments
- Travel advice for South Sudan: Safety, entry requirements and practical tips
- World Bank: South Sudan – Economic data and development indicators
- OCHA: Humanitarian situation in South Sudan
Note: The links and data cited are current as of 2024. For up-to-date developments, we recommend consulting official sources.
