South Sudan

The Independence

In July 2011, South Sudan gained independence, but after two decades of conflict with the north but relations with Sudan remain tense

Why is Sudan divided into two countries? here is why

Historical backgrounds

During the nineteenth century and until Sudan's independence from this dual rule in 1956

The region was subject to Egyptian rule during the Muhammad Ali dynasty, and later to the Anglo-Egyptian Condominium, an agreement under which Sudan was administered jointly by Egypt and the United Kingdom. This period lasted

The reason of divided the South from the North is still until this day because of: 

The disparities in political, economic, and social development between the northern and southern parts of Sudan fueled ongoing tensions

The First Sudanese Civil War broke out in 1955

A year before independence and lasted until 1972. This conflict ended with the establishment of the Autonomous Region of Southern Sudan.

 In 1983

 The Autonomous Region of Sudan was dissolved after the outbreak of the Second Sudanese Civil War.

The Sudanese conflict continued until 2005

 Ending with the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). This agreement granted South Sudan renewed autonomy and paved the way for its eventual independence.

Then, in a January 2011 referendum

 An overwhelming 98.8% of the population of the south voted to secede from Sudan. This decision was primarily motivated by long-standing grievances related to religious and ethnic marginalization, and disputes over natural resources such as oil. South Sudan formally declared its independence on July 9, 2011, amidst much celebration and challenge.وم

Did you know?

South Sudan is one of the least developed and poorest countries globally. The central African country usually ranks very low on the Human Development Index

The Capital

Juba

 South Sudan, officially the Republic of South Sudan, is the newest sovereign state in the world, having gained independence on July 9, 2011. This landlocked country is situated in eastern Central Africa, bordered by six countries: Ethiopia, Sudan, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Kenya.

It’s located for

Northeastern Africa

The population

The South Sudan is estimated at over 11.5 million

The official language

Mostly classified under the Nilo-Saharan family. The languages with the most speakers are Nuer and Dinka, Bari and Zande

The official Religion

South Sudan does not have an official religion and estimates on the numbers of followers of various faiths are unavailable. However, the majority of the South Sudanese population follows Christianity, often intermingled with traditional cultural practices.

Biodiversity

The second-largest wildlife migration in the world takes place in Bandingilo National Park. Important habitats also exist in Boma National Park, Southern National Park, and the Sudd wetland. The country includes several ecoregions such as the Northern Congolian forest-savanna mosaic, the East Sudanian savanna, the Saharan flooded grasslands, the East African montane forests, and the Northern Acacia-Commiphora bushlands.

Climate

 Has a rainy season with high humidity and a drier season, similar to equatorial climates. Most rain falls from May to October

Economy

South Sudan is the most oil-dependent country in the world, with oil accounting for almost the totality of exports, and around 60% of its gross domestic product (GDP). The country’s GDP per capita in 2014 was $1,111 dropping to less than $200 in 2017. Outside the oil sector, livelihoods are concentrated in low productive, unpaid agriculture and pastoralists work.

The Architecture in South Sudan

South Sudan, rich in cultural heritage and history, boasts an array of stunning architectural gems. The buildings in this diverse landscape reflect the nation’s past while embracing modern design elements.

1. St. Theresa Cathedral

St. Theresa Cathedral, located on Unity Avenue in Bahr al Jabal, Juba, is a significant landmark in South Sudan. It serves as the cathedral of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Juba and a parish of the Roman Catholic Church.

2. Nile Petroleum Building

The Nile Petroleum Building is a striking new landmark in Juba, South Sudan. Inaugurated recently, it stands as a symbol of progress for the country.

3. Konyo Konyo Market

Konyo Konyo Market is a bustling marketplace located in central Juba. It spans across several blocks and is a lively hub for locals and visitors alike. The market offers a wide variety of goods. Shoppers can find everything from spices and vegetables to colorful tribal clothing.

Juba International Airport

Juba International Airport is a key piece of infrastructure in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. It serves both civilian and military flights, making it a multi-use facility. The airport is located about 5 kilometers northeast of the city’s central business district, near the White Nile.

5. Dr. John Garang Mausoleum

Dr. John Garang Mausoleum is an important landmark in Juba, South Sudan. It is the final resting place of Dr. John Garang de Mabior, the leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A). He played a crucial role in the Second Sudanese Civil War and the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005.

6. Juba Stadium

Juba Stadium is located in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. It has been a major sports center for decades. The stadium opened in 1962 with a capacity of 7,000 spectators. This stadium is the home ground of the South Sudan national football team, the Shining Stars. It also hosts local clubs such as Atalaa, Al-Malikiyah, and Al-Salam.

8. Central Bazaar

Central Bazaar in South Sudan is a bustling market located in Juba. It serves as a major commercial hub where locals and visitors alike can find a variety of goods from fresh produce to handcrafted items, the Bazaar offers an authentic shopping experience. The architecture of Central Bazaar is both functional and reflective of the cultural elements. Stalls are typically open-air, constructed with simple materials to suit the local climate.

9. Nyakuron Cultural Center

The Nyakuron Cultural Center was established following the 1972 Addis Ababa Agreement, which marked the end of the First Sudanese Civil War. Opened in 1976, the center is located in Juba and was inaugurated under Abel Alier’s administration. The complex includes large gardens, an outdoor stage, an auditorium, a nightclub, and a casino. It serves as a hub for both local and international cultural events.

The Pyramid Continental Hotel

In Juba stands out with its unique design, luxurious surroundings, and world-class service. This five-star hotel offers spacious rooms, exceptional dining, and breathtaking views of Juba City and the White Nile River.

The clothing

Women’s Attire: Graceful and Symbolic

Thobe: Inspired by Sudanese influence, this long, flowing gown is often worn by women in urban and formal settings. Made from lightweight fabrics, the thobe can be simple or intricately decorated, showcasing elegance and modesty.

Wraps and Skirts

In rural areas, women wear brightly colored wraps or skirts made from cotton or printed fabrics. These are often paired with beaded tops or scarves.

Beaded Adornments

Women incorporate colorful beads into their outfits, wearing necklaces, bracelets, and headpieces that hold cultural and spiritual significance.

During celebrations

Women may add intricate hairstyles or body paint to complete their look, further reflecting their community and traditions.

Men’s Attire: Practical and Distinguished

South Sudanese men’s traditional clothing is tailored for both practicality and cultural expression:

Jalabiya: A long, loose-fitting robe often made of white cotton, ideal for the hot climate. This garment is popular among many ethnic groups, particularly for formal occasions or religious gatherings.

Animal Skins

In rural areas, some men wear clothing made from leather or animal skins, especially during traditional ceremonies, symbolizing strength and connection to nature.

Headwea

Men often wear turbans or headdresses adorned with feathers or beads, reflecting their cultural identity and status.

Footwear is typically minimal, with leather sandals or bare feet common, especially in rural regions.

Ethnic Variations: A Mosaic of Styles

South Sudan’s traditional clothing reflects the diversity of its more than 60 ethnic groups:

Dinka and Nuer Tribes

Body Paint: Both men and women use ash or clay-based paint during rituals and ceremonies, symbolizing beauty, bravery, or spiritual connection.

Beads and Scarification

Intricate beadwork and decorative scarification are common, each design telling a story of identity, age, or marital status.

Shilluk People

Known for their distinctive headdresses and use of animal skins in ceremonial dress.

Zande People:

Incorporate vibrant fabrics and feathers into their attire, often reflecting their agricultural heritage.

In the modern era

Many factors influenced the Sudanese sense of fashion, starting from the Islamic colonization and the latest Islamic revolution in 1989, which also left its mark on the Sudanese fashion, as we started to notice the introduction of modest fashion, hijab, and abaya.

The dependency on the oil revenues

Account for 98% of South Sudan's budget, about 75% of the oil is located in the south

The ethnic wars

are a major problem, occurring in nine of South Sudan's ten states

The states

The population of the states and counties of South Sudan according to the last census and latest official projections

On 14 January 2017, President Kiir issued a presidential decree that increased the number of federal states from 28 to 32.

The now defunct Eastern Nile State was split into 2 individual states, Central Upper Nile State with Malakal as its capital city and Northern Upper Nile State with Renk as its capital city.

Akobo State was formed and split from Bieh State, with Akobo as its capital. It comprises Akobo county in the Greater Upper Nile Region.

Maiwut State was formed and split from Latjoor State in the Greater Upper Nile Region retaining Koma, Longuchuk, and Maiwut counties.

Tambura State was formed and split from Gbudwe State, with Tambura as its capital. It comprises Tambura and Nagero counties in the Equatoria Region.

The Education

The South Sudanese education system follows an 8+4+4 structure, catering to learners at different stages of their development, from early childhood to university level. The main language used is English, as opposed to Arabic in Sudan. There is a shortage of English speaking teachers in the country. The literacy rate is low at 27 percent. South Sudan’s education system has been affected by conflict, natural disasters, and other crises.

Famine News in South Sudan

Some Areas South of Sudan Capital at Risk of Famine, Says World Food Programme

GENEVA (Reuters) -Several areas south of Sudan's capital Khartoum are at risk of famine, the World Food Programme said on Tuesday, with need on the ground outstripping resources amidst a food aid funding shortfall for war-ravaged Sudanese regions.

"The level of hunger and destitution and desperation that was found (is) severe and confirmed the risk of famine in those areas," Laurent Bukera, WFP Country Director in Sudan, told reporters in Geneva via video link from Port Sudan.

The peace and security in South Sudan

Foreign Relations

Originally, Sudan’s president Omar al-Bashir declared there would be dual citizenship allowed between his country and South Sudan but rescinded the offer after independence. The country’s relations with Sudan are complex. The country belongs to the U.N., the Common Market for eastern and Southern Nations, and the African Union. It plans to join other organizations like the World Bank, the IMF, and the Commonwealth of Nations

Human Rights

The SPLA has been linked to atrocities against civilians, particularly during the attempt to disarm Shilluk and Murle rebels. In the Unity state, the SPLA allegedly burned more than 7,000 homes. Opposition leader Peter Abdul Rahaman Sule has also been under arrest since 2011.

The head of the UN peacekeeping mission in the country says

The security situation in South Sudan has deteriorated significantly amid escalating tensions between the country's two main political parties, the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM), led by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SLPM-IO), led by First Vice President Riek Machar. This situation has put the already fragile country at serious risk of relapsing into civil war.

On March 4, a youth militia known as the White Army seized barracks previously occupied by the South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF), the armed forces of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement. In response, civilian areas across the Upper Nile region were subjected to aerial bombardments using devices allegedly containing a highly explosive compound. These indiscriminate attacks on civilians have resulted in multiple deaths and horrific injuries, as well as the displacement of an estimated 100,000 people.

Fears are growing of escalating violence in Upper Nile with reports of further mobilization by the White Army and the South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SPDF), including allegations of child recruitment.

On March 24, escalating tensions spilled over into the capital, Juba, when the SPDF and forces affiliated with the Sudan People's Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) clashed in locations south and west of the city. This has raised fears and concerns among local communities that the conflict could expand, and the United Nations has warned that it could jeopardize the country's revitalized 2018 peace agreement.

The United Nations, along with its international and regional partners, is engaged in diplomatic efforts to rescue the country from the clutches of a war that could devastate South Sudan and the entire region. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) – a South Sudanese group responsible for overseeing the implementation of the peace agreement – ​​are working tirelessly to prevent the loss of all the hard-won gains since the peace agreement was signed.