South Sudan | History, Capital, Language, Flag, Facts & Geography of South Sudan
History of South Sudan:
South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011. At the time of writing, it is the newest country in the world. The country is home to a diverse population that settled on the territory from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Their society is highly dependent on seasonal fluctuations in rainfall and seasonal migration. The South Sudan region was originally conquered by Egypt and then ruled by Egyptian-British colonial administrators in the late 19th century.
Christian missionaries spread English and Christianity throughout the region. It differs from the northern region of Sudan, which is Arabic-speaking and predominantly Muslim. This has resulted in significant cultural differences between northern and southern Sudan. Since gaining independence, South Sudan has struggled to form a viable government and has seen many government struggles and local violence.
Information about South Sudan:
| Capital | Juba (capital) |
| Population | 11,123,582 (Source: 2023 worldometer) |
| Major Cities | Juba (capital), Malakal, Wau, Yambio, Aweil, Bor, Kuajok, Bentiu, Rumbek |
| Borders | Ethiopia, Sudan, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and Kenya |
| Gross Domestic Product (GDP) | $51,662,241,775 (2022 worldometer) |
| Currency | South Sudanese Pound (SSP) |
Flag of South Sudan:
South Sudan Economy Key Industries:
South Sudan Major Industries: Oil production, mining, agriculture, tourism
South Sudan Agricultural Products: milk, sorghum, vegetables, cassava, goat milk, fruit, beef, sesame seed, sheep milk, mutton
South Sudan Natural Resources: hydropower, fertile agricultural land, gold, diamonds, petroleum, hardwoods, limestone, iron ore, copper, chromium ore, zinc, tungsten, mica, silver
South Sudan Major Exports: crude petroleum, gold, forage crops, lumber, insect resins
South Sudan Major Imports: cars, delivery trucks, packaged medicines, foodstuffs, clothing and apparel
The Geography of South Sudan:
Total Size of South Sudan: 644,329 km² (source: wikipedia)
Geographical Low Point of South Sudan: White Nile 381 m
Geographical High Point of South Sudan: Kinyeti 3,187 m
Climate of South Sudan: hot with seasonal rainfall influenced by the annual shift of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone; rainfall heaviest in upland areas of the south and diminishes to the north
General Terrain of South Sudan: plains in the north and center rise to southern highlands; the White Nile is the major geographic feature of the country; The Sudd, a large swampy area of more than 100,000 sq km, dominates the center of the country
World Region or Continent of South Sudan: Africa
Geographical Coordinates: 8 00 N, 30 00 E
The People of South Sudan & Culture
South Sudan Government Type: Republic of South Sudan, presidential republic
South Sudan Nationality: South Sudanese
South Sudan National Holiday: July 9, 2011 is Independence Day
South Sudan Independence: July 9, 2011 (from Sudan)
South Sudan National Symbol: African fish eagle; national colors: red, green, blue, yellow, black, white
South Sudan National Anthem or Song: South Sudan Oyee! (Hooray!)
South Sudan Languages Spoken: English (official), Arabic (includes Juba and Sudanese variants), ethnic languages include Dinka, Nuer, Bari, Zande, Shilluk
South Sudan Religions: Christian 60.5%, folk religion 32.9%, Muslim 6.2%, other <1%, unaffiliated <1% (2020 est.)
Interesting Facts about South Sudan:
Juba is the capital and largest city of South Sudan. Located on the banks of the White Nile, Juba is the political, economic and cultural center of the country.
South Sudan is the youngest country in the world. After gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan became the newest country on the world map.
The official languages of South Sudan are English and Arabic. English serves as the lingua franca, while Arabic remains an important language due to its historical ties to Sudan.
The Nile River flows through South Sudan. As the longest river in the world, the Nile plays an important role in the country’s geography and is home to rich vegetation and wildlife.
South Sudan has a diverse ethnic composition. The country is home to more than 60 ethnic groups, each with their own traditions, languages and cultural practices.
The Dinka people are the largest ethnic group in South Sudan. With a population of over 4 million, the Dinka people have a significant influence on the cultural landscape of the country.
South Sudan has large oil reserves. The country’s oil reserves are among the most valuable natural resources and contributors to the economy.
Sudd is the largest swamp in Africa and is located in South Sudan. Covering an area of about 30,000 square kilometers, the Sudd is an important habitat for many species of birds, fish and mammals.
South Sudan is known for its rich biodiversity. From elephants and giraffes to hippos and chimpanzees, the country is home to a wide variety of wildlife.
The traditional dance of South Sudan is called the “Dinka dance”. This energetic dance is characterized by vibrant movements and is often performed during celebrations and cultural events.
Kidepo Valley National Park is a popular tourist destination. Located in the eastern part of the country, this national park offers breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife and opportunities for outdoor activities.
South Sudan is going through a difficult political and humanitarian situation. The country has faced significant political instability and humanitarian crises since independence, resulting in displacement and the need for international assistance.
South Sudan has a tropical climate. Our country has a hot and humid climate, with distinct rainy and dry seasons.
The official currency of South Sudan is the South Sudanese Pound (SSP). The currency was introduced after independence to replace the Sudanese pound.
South Sudan has a rich musical heritage. Traditional music plays an important role in cultural celebrations and storytelling, often accompanied by traditional instruments such as drums and harps.
The White Nile and the Blue Nile meet in Sudan, near the border with South Sudan. This convergence point is known as the “Three Cities” and has historical significance for both countries.
South Sudan has a low literacy rate. Education is a challenge in the country, with limited school access and high dropout rates.
Agriculture is the main source of income for the majority of South Sudanese people. Subsistence agriculture, animal husbandry and fishing are essential for livelihoods and economic stability.
South Sudan has many different traditional cuisines. From staples like sorghum and millet to regional dishes like asida and bamia, the culinary scene reflects the country’s cultural diversity.
The Sudd elephant migration is a remarkable natural phenomenon in South Sudan. Every year, thousands of elephants migrate from Boma National Park to the Sudd Swamp in search of water and vegetation.
John Garang Memorial University of Science and Technology was the first public university in South Sudan. Named in honor of the country’s late leader, this university aims to provide quality education to students in a variety of disciplines.
South Sudan has a rich oral tradition. Storytelling and oral histories passed down from generation to generation are an integral part of the country’s cultural fabric. The South Sudanese pound is one of the lowest valued currencies in the world.
Challenges such as hyperinflation have resulted in a significant devaluation of the currency.
Cattle culture is deeply ingrained in South Sudanese society. Cattle are highly prized and often considered a symbol of wealth and prestige.
