GITNUXREPORT 2026

South Sudan Statistics

South Sudan is a vast, youthful nation with immense resources yet crippled by poverty and conflict.

Sarah Mitchell

Senior Researcher specializing in consumer behavior and market trends.

First published: Feb 13, 2026

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Statistic 1

South Sudan's population density is 21 people per square kilometer, one of the lowest in Africa.

Statistic 2

As of 2023, South Sudan's total population is estimated at 11,088,796, with 52% under 18 years old.

Statistic 3

Females constitute 51.2% of South Sudan's population, totaling approximately 5.67 million women.

Statistic 4

The median age in South Sudan is 17.9 years, reflecting a very youthful demographic structure.

Statistic 5

Urban population in South Sudan is only 24.08%, with Juba housing 36% of urban dwellers.

Statistic 6

Life expectancy at birth is 59.67 years for males and 62.44 years for females as of 2023.

Statistic 7

Total fertility rate stands at 4.83 children per woman, highest in the world per some metrics.

Statistic 8

Infant mortality rate is 65.3 deaths per 1,000 live births, among the highest globally.

Statistic 9

Net migration rate is -11.5 migrants per 1,000 population due to conflict and refugees.

Statistic 10

Ethnic Dinka group comprises 35-40% of population, approximately 4 million individuals.

Statistic 11

Over 2.3 million South Sudanese refugees are hosted in neighboring countries as of 2023.

Statistic 12

Literacy rate for adults aged 15+ is 34.52%, with male literacy at 41% and female at 28%.

Statistic 13

Youth unemployment rate (15-24 years) exceeds 40%, exacerbating economic pressures.

Statistic 14

Religious composition: 60% animist, 32% Christian, 6% Muslim, 2% other.

Statistic 15

Average household size is 6.5 persons, highest in East Africa.

Statistic 16

Population growth rate is 4.65% annually, driven by high birth rates.

Statistic 17

Internally displaced persons total 1.9 million as of mid-2023.

Statistic 18

Over 83% of population practices subsistence farming or pastoralism.

Statistic 19

Maternal mortality ratio is 1,150 deaths per 100,000 live births.

Statistic 20

Population projected to reach 20 million by 2040 at current growth rates.

Statistic 21

Nuer ethnic group second largest at 15-20%, about 1.8 million.

Statistic 22

2.4 million South Sudanese refugees globally as of 2023 UNHCR.

Statistic 23

Dependency ratio is 99 dependents per 100 working-age population.

Statistic 24

Shilluk and Azande together form 12% of population.

Statistic 25

60% of population nomadic or semi-nomadic pastoralists.

Statistic 26

Crude birth rate 35.7 per 1,000 population annually.

Statistic 27

Death rate 8.1 per 1,000, yielding natural increase of 2.7%.

Statistic 28

Juba population 525,000, growing 5% yearly.

Statistic 29

Over 250 ethnic groups, with 60+ languages spoken.

Statistic 30

38% of population aged 0-14, 59% 15-64, 3% 65+.

Statistic 31

Female-headed households 42% in conflict areas.

Statistic 32

GDP per capita (PPP) in South Sudan is $516, one of the lowest worldwide.

Statistic 33

Oil accounts for 98% of South Sudan's export revenues, producing 147,000 barrels per day in 2022.

Statistic 34

Total GDP (nominal) was $4.87 billion USD in 2022, contracting 12% from prior year.

Statistic 35

Inflation rate reached 387.1% in 2023, world's highest hyperinflation case.

Statistic 36

Agriculture employs 78% of workforce but contributes only 15% to GDP due to low productivity.

Statistic 37

Foreign direct investment inflow was $186 million in 2021, mainly in oil sector.

Statistic 38

South Sudan's external debt stock is $1.6 billion, 33% of GDP.

Statistic 39

Proven oil reserves are 3.5 billion barrels, with Unity and Upper Nile fields dominant.

Statistic 40

Livestock population includes 11.8 million cattle, valued at over $1 billion.

Statistic 41

Sorghum production totals 1.2 million metric tons annually, staple for 90% of diet.

Statistic 42

Unemployment rate is estimated at 35.43%, with underemployment over 60%.

Statistic 43

Gold artisanal mining produces 2-3 tons yearly, informal sector worth $200 million.

Statistic 44

Public expenditure on wages is 45% of total budget, straining fiscal resources.

Statistic 45

Remittances inflow $1.4 billion annually, 25% of GDP equivalent.

Statistic 46

Electricity access rate is 7.3%, with 93% relying on biomass for energy.

Statistic 47

Fisheries output from Nile is 10,000 tons yearly, supporting 50,000 livelihoods.

Statistic 48

Budget deficit averages 8.5% of GDP, financed by oil revenues and arrears.

Statistic 49

Timber exports, though illegal, valued at $50 million annually from equatorial forests.

Statistic 50

South Sudan GDP growth -4.35% in 2022 due to oil disruptions.

Statistic 51

Oil production peaked at 350,000 bpd pre-2012, now halved.

Statistic 52

90% of oil exported via Sudan pipeline to Port Sudan.

Statistic 53

Sesame seed exports 45,000 tons yearly, second revenue source.

Statistic 54

Gum arabic production 20,000 tons, global top supplier.

Statistic 55

Poverty rate 82.3% below $2.15 PPP line.

Statistic 56

Banking assets total $1.2 billion, penetration 5% of adults.

Statistic 57

Mobile money accounts 2.5 million, 25% of adults.

Statistic 58

Teak and mahogany logging yields $100 million illicit trade.

Statistic 59

Fish exports to Uganda $15 million annually pre-floods.

Statistic 60

Road network 7,000 km, only 300 km paved.

Statistic 61

Aid dependency 90% of budget, $1.5 billion yearly inflows.

Statistic 62

Currency South Sudanese Pound depreciated 1,200% since 2011.

Statistic 63

Diamond potential 1 million carats reserves unexplored.

Statistic 64

South Sudan covers a total land area of 619,745 square kilometers, ranking it as the 44th largest country globally by land area.

Statistic 65

The White Nile River, known locally as Bahr al Jabal, flows through South Sudan for approximately 1,200 kilometers within its borders.

Statistic 66

South Sudan experiences a tropical climate with average annual rainfall ranging from 500 mm in the north to 2,000 mm in the southern highlands.

Statistic 67

The Sudd wetland, the largest freshwater swamp in the world, spans over 15,000 square kilometers in South Sudan during the rainy season.

Statistic 68

South Sudan's highest point is Kinyeti Peak at 3,187 meters above sea level in the Dongotona Mountains.

Statistic 69

Approximately 8% of South Sudan's land area is arable, supporting subsistence agriculture for over 80% of the population.

Statistic 70

South Sudan shares a 1,055 km border with Sudan to the north, characterized by arid savanna and desert fringes.

Statistic 71

The Boma National Park in South Sudan covers 22,800 square kilometers and is home to diverse wildlife including white-eared kob.

Statistic 72

South Sudan's average elevation is 720 meters, with vast plains dominating 70% of its terrain.

Statistic 73

Forest cover in South Sudan stands at about 11.3% of total land area, equating to 70,000 square kilometers.

Statistic 74

The Jonglei Canal project, if completed, would be 360 km long to divert Nile waters through the Sudd.

Statistic 75

South Sudan has over 5,000 kilometers of navigable waterways during the rainy season, primarily the White Nile.

Statistic 76

Annual deforestation rate in South Sudan is 2.1%, leading to loss of 1,500 square kilometers of forest yearly.

Statistic 77

South Sudan's coastal length is 0 km as it is landlocked, relying on Sudan for Red Sea access.

Statistic 78

The Imatong Mountains in Eastern Equatoria reach up to 1,396 meters and support unique montane forests.

Statistic 79

South Sudan receives an average of 988 mm of annual precipitation, with 90% falling between May and October.

Statistic 80

Over 40% of South Sudan's territory is covered by swamps and wetlands, affecting infrastructure development.

Statistic 81

The country has 12 major river basins, with the Nile system draining 99% of its surface water.

Statistic 82

South Sudan's soil types include vertisols covering 30% of arable land, ideal for sorghum cultivation.

Statistic 83

Biodiversity hotspots in South Sudan include over 200 bird species in Bandingilo National Park.

Statistic 84

South Sudan has a total land area of 644,329 square kilometers including water bodies.

Statistic 85

The Sudd region expands to 30,000 sq km in wet seasons, impeding navigation.

Statistic 86

South Sudan's lowest point is the White Nile at 400 meters elevation.

Statistic 87

Over 1 million hectares of permanent swamps exist year-round.

Statistic 88

Annual temperature average is 27.6°C, with highs of 43°C in dry season.

Statistic 89

South Sudan hosts 12 national parks and reserves covering 10% of land.

Statistic 90

Iron ore deposits estimated at 2 billion tons in Boda Hills.

Statistic 91

75% of land suitable for grazing, supporting nomadic herding.

Statistic 92

Earthquake risk low, with magnitude 5.0 events rare per USGS.

Statistic 93

South Sudan borders 5 countries: Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, DRC totaling 5,413 km.

Statistic 94

Under-5 mortality rate is 90 deaths per 1,000 live births in South Sudan.

Statistic 95

HIV prevalence among adults 15-49 is 2.5%, affecting 190,000 people.

Statistic 96

Only 6.7% of births are attended by skilled health personnel.

Statistic 97

Malaria accounts for 25% of all hospital admissions and 9% of deaths.

Statistic 98

Immunization coverage for DTP3 vaccine is 75% among one-year-olds.

Statistic 99

There are 0.2 physicians per 1,000 population, far below WHO recommendation.

Statistic 100

Adult literacy rate is 34.5%, with rural rates dropping to 20%.

Statistic 101

Net primary school enrollment is 62%, but completion rate only 38%.

Statistic 102

Gender parity index in primary education is 0.92, favoring boys slightly.

Statistic 103

Tuberculosis incidence is 97 cases per 100,000 population annually.

Statistic 104

Only 19% of population has access to improved sanitation facilities.

Statistic 105

Stunting affects 31% of children under 5 due to chronic malnutrition.

Statistic 106

Government health expenditure is 2.4% of GDP, below Abuja Declaration target.

Statistic 107

Youth literacy rate (15-24) is 43%, with females at 37%.

Statistic 108

48% of schools lack clean water, impacting 1.7 million pupils.

Statistic 109

Hepatitis B prevalence is 8.5% among general population.

Statistic 110

Primary school pupil-teacher ratio is 48:1, highest in region.

Statistic 111

7 million people face acute food insecurity, per IPC Phase 3+.

Statistic 112

Contraceptive prevalence rate is 4.6% among married women.

Statistic 113

Tertiary enrollment rate is 2.3%, with only 3 universities operational.

Statistic 114

Wasting affects 7.1% of under-5 children, acute malnutrition crisis.

Statistic 115

55% of health facilities non-functional due to conflict.

Statistic 116

Polio vaccination coverage 82% after 2020 outbreak.

Statistic 117

Non-communicable diseases rising, 15% of deaths hypertension/diabetes.

Statistic 118

1.5 million children out of school, 70% of primary age.

Statistic 119

Teacher absenteeism 50% in rural areas.

Statistic 120

83% lack basic drinking water services.

Statistic 121

Mental health disorders affect 50% post-trauma population.

Statistic 122

Secondary net enrollment 12%, dropout 40% after grade 5.

Statistic 123

Neglected tropical diseases: 4 million at risk for onchocerciasis.

Statistic 124

Female genital mutilation prevalence 51% in some communities.

Statistic 125

Education spending 0.9% of GDP, lowest regionally.

Statistic 126

2.4 million girls face barriers to secondary education.

Statistic 127

Cholera outbreaks: 28,000 cases since 2016.

Statistic 128

Disability prevalence 15%, 1.6 million affected.

Statistic 129

Over 400 attacks on health facilities since 2016.

Statistic 130

South Sudan gained independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011, after 98.83% referendum vote.

Statistic 131

Civil war from 2013-2018 displaced 4 million and killed 383,000.

Statistic 132

Current constitution adopted 2011, with 10 states increased to 32 counties in 2015.

Statistic 133

President Salva Kiir has been in power since independence, re-elected in 2018 with 82%.

Statistic 134

Revitalized Agreement on Resolution of Conflict (R-ARCSS) signed September 2018 by 8 parties.

Statistic 135

Over 1,100 political violence events recorded in 2022 by ACLED.

Statistic 136

Corruption Perceptions Index rank 177/180, score 13/100 in 2022.

Statistic 137

Military expenditure 6.3% of GDP, highest globally per capita.

Statistic 138

85,000 child soldiers recruited since 2013, per UN reports.

Statistic 139

Freedom House rates South Sudan "Not Free" with score 11/100.

Statistic 140

Inter-communal violence killed 4,000 in 2022, mainly cattle raids.

Statistic 141

UNMISS peacekeeping force has 13,000 troops deployed since 2011.

Statistic 142

Gender-based violence affects 65% of women, per MSF data.

Statistic 143

7.7 million voters registered for 2018 elections, turnout 64%.

Statistic 144

Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) holds 514/332 parliamentary seats.

Statistic 145

Arms embargo imposed by UNSC Resolution 2206 since 2015.

Statistic 146

195 political parties registered, but opposition fragmented.

Statistic 147

Homicide rate 14.4 per 100,000, driven by conflict.

Statistic 148

Transitional government extended to 2025 per 2022 roadmap.

Statistic 149

2.2 million excess deaths from 2013-2018 war per LSE study.

Statistic 150

Parliamentary seats 332 transitional, 30% women quota unmet.

Statistic 151

1,800 ceasefire violations recorded 2022 by CTSAM.

Statistic 152

SPLM-IO controls 20% territory per UN estimates.

Statistic 153

1.1 million small arms in civilian hands.

Statistic 154

Press Freedom Index rank 140/180, score 42.3.

Statistic 155

52 journalists detained/arrested in 2022.

Statistic 156

Oil revenue sharing 60/40 Sudan-South Sudan per 2011 agreement.

Statistic 157

National Legislative Assembly sessions disrupted 70% of time.

Statistic 158

IGAD-mediated talks held 15 rounds since 2011.

Statistic 159

Rape cases 85% unreported, 1,300 verified 2022.

1/159

Sources

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From the vast, life-giving swamps of the Sudd to the soaring peaks of the Dongotona Mountains, South Sudan is a land of staggering geographical contrasts that shape every aspect of its existence, a reality thrown into sharp relief by the nation's profound demographic and economic challenges.

Key Takeaways

South Sudan covers a total land area of 619,745 square kilometers, ranking it as the 44th largest country globally by land area.
The White Nile River, known locally as Bahr al Jabal, flows through South Sudan for approximately 1,200 kilometers within its borders.
South Sudan experiences a tropical climate with average annual rainfall ranging from 500 mm in the north to 2,000 mm in the southern highlands.
South Sudan's population density is 21 people per square kilometer, one of the lowest in Africa.
As of 2023, South Sudan's total population is estimated at 11,088,796, with 52% under 18 years old.
Females constitute 51.2% of South Sudan's population, totaling approximately 5.67 million women.
GDP per capita (PPP) in South Sudan is $516, one of the lowest worldwide.
Oil accounts for 98% of South Sudan's export revenues, producing 147,000 barrels per day in 2022.
Total GDP (nominal) was $4.87 billion USD in 2022, contracting 12% from prior year.
Under-5 mortality rate is 90 deaths per 1,000 live births in South Sudan.
HIV prevalence among adults 15-49 is 2.5%, affecting 190,000 people.
Only 6.7% of births are attended by skilled health personnel.
South Sudan gained independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011, after 98.83% referendum vote.
Civil war from 2013-2018 displaced 4 million and killed 383,000.
Current constitution adopted 2011, with 10 states increased to 32 counties in 2015.

South Sudan is a vast, youthful nation with immense resources yet crippled by poverty and conflict.

Demographics and Population

South Sudan's population density is 21 people per square kilometer, one of the lowest in Africa.
As of 2023, South Sudan's total population is estimated at 11,088,796, with 52% under 18 years old.
Females constitute 51.2% of South Sudan's population, totaling approximately 5.67 million women.
The median age in South Sudan is 17.9 years, reflecting a very youthful demographic structure.
Urban population in South Sudan is only 24.08%, with Juba housing 36% of urban dwellers.
Life expectancy at birth is 59.67 years for males and 62.44 years for females as of 2023.
Total fertility rate stands at 4.83 children per woman, highest in the world per some metrics.
Infant mortality rate is 65.3 deaths per 1,000 live births, among the highest globally.
Net migration rate is -11.5 migrants per 1,000 population due to conflict and refugees.
Ethnic Dinka group comprises 35-40% of population, approximately 4 million individuals.
Over 2.3 million South Sudanese refugees are hosted in neighboring countries as of 2023.
Literacy rate for adults aged 15+ is 34.52%, with male literacy at 41% and female at 28%.
Youth unemployment rate (15-24 years) exceeds 40%, exacerbating economic pressures.
Religious composition: 60% animist, 32% Christian, 6% Muslim, 2% other.
Average household size is 6.5 persons, highest in East Africa.
Population growth rate is 4.65% annually, driven by high birth rates.
Internally displaced persons total 1.9 million as of mid-2023.
Over 83% of population practices subsistence farming or pastoralism.
Maternal mortality ratio is 1,150 deaths per 100,000 live births.
Population projected to reach 20 million by 2040 at current growth rates.
Nuer ethnic group second largest at 15-20%, about 1.8 million.
2.4 million South Sudanese refugees globally as of 2023 UNHCR.
Dependency ratio is 99 dependents per 100 working-age population.
Shilluk and Azande together form 12% of population.
60% of population nomadic or semi-nomadic pastoralists.
Crude birth rate 35.7 per 1,000 population annually.
Death rate 8.1 per 1,000, yielding natural increase of 2.7%.
Juba population 525,000, growing 5% yearly.
Over 250 ethnic groups, with 60+ languages spoken.
38% of population aged 0-14, 59% 15-64, 3% 65+.
Female-headed households 42% in conflict areas.

Demographics and Population Interpretation

Despite having space for everyone, South Sudan's story is one of a tragically crowded youth—bursting with future yet stretched thin by displacement, loss, and a relentless battle for survival on its own vast land.

Economy and Resources

GDP per capita (PPP) in South Sudan is $516, one of the lowest worldwide.
Oil accounts for 98% of South Sudan's export revenues, producing 147,000 barrels per day in 2022.
Total GDP (nominal) was $4.87 billion USD in 2022, contracting 12% from prior year.
Inflation rate reached 387.1% in 2023, world's highest hyperinflation case.
Agriculture employs 78% of workforce but contributes only 15% to GDP due to low productivity.
Foreign direct investment inflow was $186 million in 2021, mainly in oil sector.
South Sudan's external debt stock is $1.6 billion, 33% of GDP.
Proven oil reserves are 3.5 billion barrels, with Unity and Upper Nile fields dominant.
Livestock population includes 11.8 million cattle, valued at over $1 billion.
Sorghum production totals 1.2 million metric tons annually, staple for 90% of diet.
Unemployment rate is estimated at 35.43%, with underemployment over 60%.
Gold artisanal mining produces 2-3 tons yearly, informal sector worth $200 million.
Public expenditure on wages is 45% of total budget, straining fiscal resources.
Remittances inflow $1.4 billion annually, 25% of GDP equivalent.
Electricity access rate is 7.3%, with 93% relying on biomass for energy.
Fisheries output from Nile is 10,000 tons yearly, supporting 50,000 livelihoods.
Budget deficit averages 8.5% of GDP, financed by oil revenues and arrears.
Timber exports, though illegal, valued at $50 million annually from equatorial forests.
South Sudan GDP growth -4.35% in 2022 due to oil disruptions.
Oil production peaked at 350,000 bpd pre-2012, now halved.
90% of oil exported via Sudan pipeline to Port Sudan.
Sesame seed exports 45,000 tons yearly, second revenue source.
Gum arabic production 20,000 tons, global top supplier.
Poverty rate 82.3% below $2.15 PPP line.
Banking assets total $1.2 billion, penetration 5% of adults.
Mobile money accounts 2.5 million, 25% of adults.
Teak and mahogany logging yields $100 million illicit trade.
Fish exports to Uganda $15 million annually pre-floods.
Road network 7,000 km, only 300 km paved.
Aid dependency 90% of budget, $1.5 billion yearly inflows.
Currency South Sudanese Pound depreciated 1,200% since 2011.
Diamond potential 1 million carats reserves unexplored.

Economy and Resources Interpretation

South Sudan's economy is a paradox of immense potential and desperate hardship, where a river of oil flows through a desert of development, leaving its people with a billion-dollar herd of cattle but no paved road to market.

Geography and Environment

South Sudan covers a total land area of 619,745 square kilometers, ranking it as the 44th largest country globally by land area.
The White Nile River, known locally as Bahr al Jabal, flows through South Sudan for approximately 1,200 kilometers within its borders.
South Sudan experiences a tropical climate with average annual rainfall ranging from 500 mm in the north to 2,000 mm in the southern highlands.
The Sudd wetland, the largest freshwater swamp in the world, spans over 15,000 square kilometers in South Sudan during the rainy season.
South Sudan's highest point is Kinyeti Peak at 3,187 meters above sea level in the Dongotona Mountains.
Approximately 8% of South Sudan's land area is arable, supporting subsistence agriculture for over 80% of the population.
South Sudan shares a 1,055 km border with Sudan to the north, characterized by arid savanna and desert fringes.
The Boma National Park in South Sudan covers 22,800 square kilometers and is home to diverse wildlife including white-eared kob.
South Sudan's average elevation is 720 meters, with vast plains dominating 70% of its terrain.
Forest cover in South Sudan stands at about 11.3% of total land area, equating to 70,000 square kilometers.
The Jonglei Canal project, if completed, would be 360 km long to divert Nile waters through the Sudd.
South Sudan has over 5,000 kilometers of navigable waterways during the rainy season, primarily the White Nile.
Annual deforestation rate in South Sudan is 2.1%, leading to loss of 1,500 square kilometers of forest yearly.
South Sudan's coastal length is 0 km as it is landlocked, relying on Sudan for Red Sea access.
The Imatong Mountains in Eastern Equatoria reach up to 1,396 meters and support unique montane forests.
South Sudan receives an average of 988 mm of annual precipitation, with 90% falling between May and October.
Over 40% of South Sudan's territory is covered by swamps and wetlands, affecting infrastructure development.
The country has 12 major river basins, with the Nile system draining 99% of its surface water.
South Sudan's soil types include vertisols covering 30% of arable land, ideal for sorghum cultivation.
Biodiversity hotspots in South Sudan include over 200 bird species in Bandingilo National Park.
South Sudan has a total land area of 644,329 square kilometers including water bodies.
The Sudd region expands to 30,000 sq km in wet seasons, impeding navigation.
South Sudan's lowest point is the White Nile at 400 meters elevation.
Over 1 million hectares of permanent swamps exist year-round.
Annual temperature average is 27.6°C, with highs of 43°C in dry season.
South Sudan hosts 12 national parks and reserves covering 10% of land.
Iron ore deposits estimated at 2 billion tons in Boda Hills.
75% of land suitable for grazing, supporting nomadic herding.
Earthquake risk low, with magnitude 5.0 events rare per USGS.
South Sudan borders 5 countries: Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, DRC totaling 5,413 km.

Geography and Environment Interpretation

South Sudan is a land of vast, untamed contradictions, where 40% of the country is swallowed by life-giving swamps that also strangle development, 80% of its people survive on a mere 8% of arable land, and its greatest natural wealth is matched only by its profound environmental and infrastructural vulnerability.

Health and Education

Under-5 mortality rate is 90 deaths per 1,000 live births in South Sudan.
HIV prevalence among adults 15-49 is 2.5%, affecting 190,000 people.
Only 6.7% of births are attended by skilled health personnel.
Malaria accounts for 25% of all hospital admissions and 9% of deaths.
Immunization coverage for DTP3 vaccine is 75% among one-year-olds.
There are 0.2 physicians per 1,000 population, far below WHO recommendation.
Adult literacy rate is 34.5%, with rural rates dropping to 20%.
Net primary school enrollment is 62%, but completion rate only 38%.
Gender parity index in primary education is 0.92, favoring boys slightly.
Tuberculosis incidence is 97 cases per 100,000 population annually.
Only 19% of population has access to improved sanitation facilities.
Stunting affects 31% of children under 5 due to chronic malnutrition.
Government health expenditure is 2.4% of GDP, below Abuja Declaration target.
Youth literacy rate (15-24) is 43%, with females at 37%.
48% of schools lack clean water, impacting 1.7 million pupils.
Hepatitis B prevalence is 8.5% among general population.
Primary school pupil-teacher ratio is 48:1, highest in region.
7 million people face acute food insecurity, per IPC Phase 3+.
Contraceptive prevalence rate is 4.6% among married women.
Tertiary enrollment rate is 2.3%, with only 3 universities operational.
Wasting affects 7.1% of under-5 children, acute malnutrition crisis.
55% of health facilities non-functional due to conflict.
Polio vaccination coverage 82% after 2020 outbreak.
Non-communicable diseases rising, 15% of deaths hypertension/diabetes.
1.5 million children out of school, 70% of primary age.
Teacher absenteeism 50% in rural areas.
83% lack basic drinking water services.
Mental health disorders affect 50% post-trauma population.
Secondary net enrollment 12%, dropout 40% after grade 5.
Neglected tropical diseases: 4 million at risk for onchocerciasis.
Female genital mutilation prevalence 51% in some communities.
Education spending 0.9% of GDP, lowest regionally.
2.4 million girls face barriers to secondary education.
Cholera outbreaks: 28,000 cases since 2016.
Disability prevalence 15%, 1.6 million affected.
Over 400 attacks on health facilities since 2016.

Health and Education Interpretation

South Sudan presents a grim paradox of resilience, where a child is statistically more likely to die before turning five than to be born with a skilled attendant, more likely to suffer from stunting than to have a teacher present in an overcrowded classroom, and where the very hospitals meant to save lives are themselves under attack and understaffed, painting a portrait of a nation systematically dismantled from its foundations of health, education, and hope.

Politics and Security

South Sudan gained independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011, after 98.83% referendum vote.
Civil war from 2013-2018 displaced 4 million and killed 383,000.
Current constitution adopted 2011, with 10 states increased to 32 counties in 2015.
President Salva Kiir has been in power since independence, re-elected in 2018 with 82%.
Revitalized Agreement on Resolution of Conflict (R-ARCSS) signed September 2018 by 8 parties.
Over 1,100 political violence events recorded in 2022 by ACLED.
Corruption Perceptions Index rank 177/180, score 13/100 in 2022.
Military expenditure 6.3% of GDP, highest globally per capita.
85,000 child soldiers recruited since 2013, per UN reports.
Freedom House rates South Sudan "Not Free" with score 11/100.
Inter-communal violence killed 4,000 in 2022, mainly cattle raids.
UNMISS peacekeeping force has 13,000 troops deployed since 2011.
Gender-based violence affects 65% of women, per MSF data.
7.7 million voters registered for 2018 elections, turnout 64%.
Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) holds 514/332 parliamentary seats.
Arms embargo imposed by UNSC Resolution 2206 since 2015.
195 political parties registered, but opposition fragmented.
Homicide rate 14.4 per 100,000, driven by conflict.
Transitional government extended to 2025 per 2022 roadmap.
2.2 million excess deaths from 2013-2018 war per LSE study.
Parliamentary seats 332 transitional, 30% women quota unmet.
1,800 ceasefire violations recorded 2022 by CTSAM.
SPLM-IO controls 20% territory per UN estimates.
1.1 million small arms in civilian hands.
Press Freedom Index rank 140/180, score 42.3.
52 journalists detained/arrested in 2022.
Oil revenue sharing 60/40 Sudan-South Sudan per 2011 agreement.
National Legislative Assembly sessions disrupted 70% of time.
IGAD-mediated talks held 15 rounds since 2011.
Rape cases 85% unreported, 1,300 verified 2022.

Politics and Security Interpretation

Despite a near-unanimous vote for independence that promised freedom, South Sudan has tragically traded one master for many, charting a course from jubilant nationhood into a brutal labyrinth of perpetual conflict, corruption, and statistical horror where the only things that seem to grow reliably are military budgets, body counts, and the number of administrative divisions.

Sources & References

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