Looking to boost your knowledge of the world? Take a look at these fun facts about South Sudan!
1. Where is South Sudan?
South Sudan is a landlocked country in East Africa. It is bordered by Sudan to the north, Ethiopia to the east, Kenya, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the south, and the Central African Republic to the west.
2. Here are the compass details.
To explore this beautiful country for yourself, head for the coordinates of 4.8500° N, 31.6000° E.
3. It’s based around a swamp.
The centre of South Sudan features a large swamp fed by the White Nile river, whilst there are plains in the north and highlands in the south.
4. It’s a pretty big country!
The total land area of South Sudan is 248,777 square miles (644,329 square kilometres)…that’s roughly the same size as France.
5. However, the density is fairly sparse.
South Sudan’s population was 10.91 million in 2022…that’s around 1/5th of the population of France!
6. What’s the capital of South Sudan?
The capital is Juba, which had a population of 525,953 in 2017.
7. South Sudan has two main seasons.
The South Sudanese enjoy a tropical climate with a rainy season spanning from April to November, followed by a dry season from December to March.
8. It’s a safari paradise.
With several national parks and protected game reserves, there is a wealth of wildlife in South Sudan, including giraffes, buffalos, lions, elephants, and hartebeest (large antelope)!
9. Do people speak English in South Sudan?
The official language of South Sudan is English, although there are many indigenous languages spoken here too.
10. It’s the youngest countries on Earth.
South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in July 2011!
11. Keep the currency in mind.
The South Sudanese Pound is the accepted currency here.
12. There is very specific housing out here.
The majority of South Sudanese live in Tukels; these houses are generally constructed from sticks and mud with a thatched roof and are circular in shape.
13. Life expectancy in South Sudan is short.
The average life span here is just 54.98 years (2021).
14. Trade in your cattle!
Cows are often used as a form of currency for barter in South Sudan and are thus a sign of wealth. It is not uncommon to guard cattle with guns in South Sudan to prevent would-be thieves from stealing them!
It is also commonplace to pay a man in cattle for the opportunity to marry his daughter should there be several men competing for her. Prices vary but can sometimes reach 100 cattle!
15. Wrestling is massive in South Sudan.
Although football is the national sport of South Sudan, wrestling is one of the most popular.
16. Here’s some information on South Sudan’s exports and industry.
South Sudan grows maize, rice, wheat, millet, gum arabic, mangoes, bananas, papaya, sugarcane, cotton, sweet potato, beans and peanuts; they also rear cattle and sheep.
Its main industry is petroleum production, and the main export is crude oil.
FAQs about South Sudan
Is South Sudan safe to visit?
Unfortunately, South Sudan is not regarded as safe for visitors from overseas at the time of writing.
What is the biggest problem facing South Sudan as a country?
At present, South Sudan is struggling with its economy and its political setup, which has resulted in violence up and down the nation.
Is South Sudan a poor country?
Yes - regrettably, South Sudan’s poverty line affects more than 82% of the nation.
Do you know any fun facts about South Sudan? Share them in the comments below!