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Poverty in South Sudan

  • Writer: Maelie Ciccioli
    Maelie Ciccioli
  • Jan 25, 2023
  • 2 min read

Introduction

South Sudan is one of the poorest countries in the world, with an estimated 80% of the population living below the poverty line. This poverty is reflected in the poor living conditions that many South Sudanese face on a daily basis.

One of the main causes of poverty in South Sudan is the ongoing conflict that has plagued the country since its independence in 2011. The civil war has led to the displacement of millions of people, destruction of infrastructure, and economic disruption. This has made it difficult for individuals and businesses to earn a stable income, and has also limited access to markets and basic services. Many people are living in displacement camps, or are living as refugees in neighboring countries. These individuals often face difficult living conditions, with limited access to food, water, and shelter.


Less resources

Another example of poverty in South Sudan is the lack of access to basic services such as healthcare and education. Many South Sudanese live in rural areas with little or no access to healthcare facilities, and as a result, maternal and child mortality rates are among the highest in the world.

Similarly, many children do not have access to education, and the literacy rate in South Sudan is one of the lowest in the world. This lack of education and healthcare services leads to a cycle of poverty, as uneducated and unhealthy individuals are less likely to be able to find good jobs and support themselves and their families.



The living conditions and needs

The poor living conditions are also due to the lack of infrastructure and services such as electricity, running water, and sanitation. Many South Sudanese live in homes that are not equipped with basic amenities, and have limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities. This can lead to health problems and a lack of basic hygiene.

Another example of poverty in South Sudan is the high rate of food insecurity. The civil war and ongoing conflict have disrupted agricultural production and limited access to markets, making it difficult for many people to access enough food to meet their basic needs. This is further exacerbated by environmental factors such as drought and flooding, which can lead to crop failures and food shortages.



More about the government

Furthermore, the poverty in South Sudan is exacerbated by the lack of good governance and corruption. The government is weak and unable to provide basic services to its citizens, and corruption is rampant at all levels of society. This makes it difficult for individuals and organizations to access the resources they need to improve their lives, and it also creates a lack of trust in the government, which further undermines the possibilities of development.

In conclusion, poverty in South Sudan is a complex and multifaceted issue that is driven by a lack of economic opportunities, ongoing conflict, limited access to basic services, displacement, lack of good governance, corruption, and environmental challenges. To address poverty in South Sudan, it is important to address the root causes of the issue, including addressing the ongoing conflict, investing in infrastructure and services, and creating economic opportunities. Additionally, good governance and anti-corruption measures are crucial in order to build trust in the government and create an environment that is conducive to development.




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