South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, has faced numerous challenges since gaining independence in 2011. Despite South Sudan’s investment opportunities and abundant natural resources – particularly oil- South Sudan remains as the poorest country globally.
As of 2022, approximately 76% of South Sudanese live below the national poverty line, set at 358,724 South Sudanese Pounds per person annually.
This article delves into the multifaceted reasons behind South Sudan’s pervasive poverty.
Historical Context and Persistent Conflict
South Sudan’s history is marred by prolonged conflicts, notably the Second Sudanese Civil War (1983-2005), which devastated the region’s infrastructure and economy. The war destroyed many sectors of economic activity, especially agriculture, forcing many farmers to abandon their land and leading to significant losses in livestock.
After gaining independence in 2011, hopes were high for a peaceful and prosperous future.
However, internal conflicts erupted in 2013 and 2016, further destabilizing the nation. These conflicts have led to widespread displacement, with millions fleeing their homes, disrupting economic activities, and hindering development efforts.
Economic Challenges and Mismanagement
South Sudan’s economy is heavily reliant on oil, which accounts for nearly all its exports and a significant portion of government revenue. However, fluctuations in global oil prices and internal conflicts have severely impacted production and revenue. The halt in oil exports, crucial for government revenue, is due to pipeline damage in Sudan’s conflict zone.
Additionally, weak management of public resources and political contestation have undermined post-independence development gains and intensified existing humanitarian needs.
Infrastructure Deficits
Decades of conflict have left South Sudan with minimal infrastructure. The destruction of roads, bridges, and communication networks hampers trade and access to essential services. Critical infrastructure, like waterways and canals, were destroyed by airstrikes during the civil war.
This lack of infrastructure isolates communities, limits economic opportunities, and exacerbates poverty.
Educational Challenges
Education is a cornerstone for development, yet South Sudan faces significant hurdles in this sector. As of 2015, only 27% of the population is literate, with a stark gender disparity: 40% literacy among males and just 16% among females.
The civil wars have led to the destruction of educational facilities, a shortage of trained teachers, and the displacement of students. Limited access to quality education restricts individuals’ employment opportunities and perpetuates the cycle of poverty.
Health Crises and Food Insecurity
The healthcare system in South Sudan is underdeveloped, leading to poor health outcomes. The infant mortality rate is alarmingly high, with 105 deaths per 1,000 births, and 17% of children are not immunized. Additionally, food insecurity is widespread, exacerbated by conflicts that disrupt farming activities and displace communities. In 2017, parts of South Sudan experienced famine, highlighting the severity of the crisis.
Recent reports indicate that food insecurity has worsened, with reduced funding for emergency food and agriculture assistance exacerbating the situation.
Climate Change and Environmental Challenges
Climate change has led to more frequent and severe flooding in South Sudan, displacing thousands and destroying homes, crops, and livestock. In Ayod, Jonglei, for instance, annual floods have submerged villages, forcing families to seek refuge along the Jonglei Canal.
These environmental challenges further strain the already limited resources and complicate recovery efforts.
Governance and Political Instability
Political instability remains a significant barrier to development. Recent political shake-ups, such as the replacement of two vice-presidents and the spy chief, are seen as attempts to consolidate power ahead of postponed national elections
Such instability undermines public trust, disrupts governance, and deters investment, all of which are crucial for economic growth and poverty reduction.
Conclusion
South Sudan’s pervasive poverty is the result of a complex interplay of historical conflicts, economic challenges, infrastructure deficits, educational shortcomings, health crises, environmental factors, and political instability.
Addressing these issues requires comprehensive strategies that promote peace, effective governance, economic diversification, infrastructure development, and investment in human capital.
The international community’s support remains vital in helping South Sudan navigate these challenges and work towards a more prosperous future, and Pesabase is improving the lives of the population by making money transfers to South Sudan easy to reach those who need it most.