Facts leave no stone un-turned, so let me take you through some facts about the world’s youngest country, South Sudan.
Situated in Central Africa
South Sudan is located in Central Africa, with cities such as Juba (the capital city), Wau, Malakal, Bor, Aweil, Yambio, Torit, and Yirol, among others.
Each city is filled with various businesses that help people earn a living.
South Sudan has friendly neighboring countries, including:
- Kenya – Known for its diverse national parks.
- Democratic Republic of Congo – Rich in natural resources.
- Uganda – Also called “The Pearl of Africa”.
- Ethiopia – The only African country that resisted colonization, also known for its unique calendar.
South Sudan is a Landlocked Country
South Sudan is completely surrounded by land and has no access to the sea. This forces the country to depend on neighbors with seaports to import and export goods.
It should be noted that Sudan was once the largest country in Africa and the 10th largest in the world. However, after South Sudan split from it, Sudan became the third-largest country in Africa.
South Sudan Has One of the World’s Youngest Populations
According to experts, the average age in South Sudan is 18.6 years.
Most of the population is under 25 years old, with very few elderly people, mainly because of the long-lasting wars that only ended in 2011 when the country gained independence.
Due to this, South Sudan has a low life expectancy.
Shares the Nile River with Uganda
The Nile River flows through South Sudan, with one of its major tributaries, the White Nile, running through Juba before joining the Blue Nile in Khartoum.
NOTE: The Nile River also flows through Uganda (its source), Egypt, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and several other countries.
South Sudan’s Flag is Full of Symbols
South Sudan’s flag consists of a fimbriated horizontal tricolor of black, red, and green, with a blue triangle on the hoist side containing a five-pointed gold star.
Each color represents something:
- Black – Represents the people.
- White – Symbolizes peace.
- Red – Stands for the blood shed for freedom.
- Green – Represents fertile land.
South Sudan is Home to Many Languages
English and Arabic were once the official languages. However, after gaining independence, English became the only official language.
As you travel through South Sudan, you will hear people speaking Dinka, Azande, Nuer, Acholi, Pari, Murle, and many other native languages.
Gaining Independence
In July 2011, South Sudan finally gained independence, but sadly, this happened after the death of John Garang, who had been a key figure in seeking peace for the country.
Since South Sudan only recently gained freedom, it still faces high poverty rates, with 80% of the population living in rural areas and surviving on less than $1.90 per day.
Abundance of Natural Resources
South Sudan is rich in natural resources, including: Petroleum, Marble, The Nile River, Iron Ore, Aluminum and Gold (the country’s major mineral).
Unfortunately, despite these valuable resources, most residents work in non-wage pastoral jobs and do not benefit from the country’s natural wealth.
