and development. Conflict spillover from Sudan, climate‑induced flooding, and reduced development financing strained progress, yet government and international partners continued efforts in food security, essential services, governance, and economic recovery. Real GDP is projected to rebound strongly in 2024/25 and 2025/26 as oil production resumes.
Introduction
South Sudan is a landlocked country in northeastern Africa, independent since 2011, with its capital in Juba. It faced significant humanitarian and economic pressures in 2025, including flooding, conflict spillover, and reduced development financing.
Geography
South Sudan borders Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Central African Republic. Its landscape includes plains, high plateaus, mountains, and major wetlands such as the Sudd, one of Africa’s largest. The White Nile runs northward through the country.
People and Society
The population is estimated at 12.4 million, with English as the official language and Arabic widely spoken. The country has 10 states and 3 administrative areas. In 2025, over 2 million people accessed essential health services, and more than 325,000 children accessed education, reflecting ongoing humanitarian support.
Government
South Sudan operates under a transitional unity government formed after the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict (R‑ARCSS). The political climate remained relatively peaceful in 2025, with continued commitment to long‑term stability measures.
Population
Estimated population: 12.4 million, continuing to rise.
Economy
South Sudan’s economy is highly dependent on oil, which accounts for over 50% of GDP, 80% of exports, and 90% of government revenue. Pipeline damage and shutdowns caused a 27.6% GDP contraction in 2023/24, but recovery is expected with 4.0% growth in 2024/25 and 12.1% in 2025/26 as oil production resumes. Diversification remains a major challenge.
Energy
Electricity supply is limited; the national grid uses 230V AC, 50Hz, with 2‑pin and 3‑pin sockets. Energy infrastructure remains underdeveloped, and oil remains the dominant economic and energy resource.
Communications
The National Communication Authority oversees telecoms. Data gaps and weak ICT infrastructure hinder planning and service delivery. Strengthening ICT capacity is a priority for government and development partners.
Transportation
Flooding and conflict have historically damaged transport infrastructure. While not extensively detailed in the 2025 reports, the country continues to rely heavily on road transport, with limited paved networks and seasonal accessibility challenges.
Military and Security
Security conditions improved relative to earlier years due to the peace agreement, but localized conflict and spillover from Sudan continued to pose risks in 2025. Government and partners worked to strengthen governance, justice, and peacebuilding mechanisms.
Travel Advice
Travelers should exercise high caution due to:
- Localized conflict and insecurity
- Flooding and poor road conditions
- Limited health and communication infrastructure
(Always consult your government’s official travel advisory.)
Expected Trends for 2026
Based on 2025–2026 reporting:
- Economic rebound expected as oil production returns to pre‑shutdown levels, supporting projected 12.1% GDP growth in 2025/26.
- Continued focus on food security, essential services, and durable solutions for displaced populations.
- Ongoing need for data system strengthening, governance reforms, and institutional capacity building.
- Political stability likely to remain fragile but supported by the peace agreement framework.
