South Sudan Map

Description:

---

South Sudan, officially the Republic of South Sudan, is the world's youngest internationally recognized country, gaining independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011, following a referendum. Located in East-Central Africa, it is bordered by Sudan to the north, Ethiopia to the east, Kenya to the southeast, Uganda to the south, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the southwest, and the Central African Republic to the west.

The country has an estimated population of 12.7 million people and covers an area of 619,745 square kilometers (239,285 sq mi). The capital and largest city is Juba. English is the official language, though numerous indigenous languages are spoken throughout the country.

South Sudan's economy is heavily dependent on agriculture and oil production. The country possesses significant oil reserves, which account for nearly all of its export revenue. However, despite its natural resources, South Sudan remains one of the poorest countries in the world, with about 82% of the population living below the poverty line.

The country has faced significant challenges since independence, including a devastating civil war that began in 2013 and officially ended in 2020 with the formation of a unity government. The conflict resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and displaced millions of people. The nation continues to struggle with political instability, ethnic tensions, and humanitarian crises.

South Sudan's terrain is dominated by tropical forests, swamps, and grassland. The White Nile (called the Bahr al Jabal in South Sudan) flows north through the country from Uganda to Sudan. The climate is hot with seasonal rainfall influenced by the annual shift of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone.

The Facts:
Capital: Juba.
Area: 239,285 sq mi (619,745 sq km).
Population: ~ 12,700,000 (2024 estimate).
Largest cities: Juba, Yei, Wau, Malakal, Aweil, Kuajok, Nimule, Yambio, Rumbek, Bor, Torit, Abyei, Tonj, Yirol, Bentiu.
Official language: English.
Currency: South Sudanese pound (SSP).

States of South Sudan: Northern Bahr el Ghazal, Western Bahr el Ghazal, Lakes, Warrap, Western Equatoria, Central Equatoria, Eastern Equatoria, Jonglei, Unity, Upper Nile, Abyei Area, Pibor Area, Ruweng Area.