Africa's South Sudan Population: An Overview



Africa is a continent of immense diversity, and its population is no exception. One of the most populous countries in Africa is South Sudan, which has a population of over 12 million people. South Sudan is the world's newest nation, having only gained independence in 2011. The population of South Sudan is largely rural, with over 80% of the population living in rural areas.

The population of South Sudan is predominantly young. Nearly half of the population is under the age of 18, and the median age of the population is 17.7 years. This is one of the youngest populations in the world, and it is a result of the high fertility rate in South Sudan. The fertility rate in South Sudan is 6.2 children per woman, which is one of the highest in the world.

The population of South Sudan is also growing rapidly. The population is expected to double in the next 20 years, and it is projected to reach 24 million by 2040. This rapid population growth is due to high fertility rates, as well as a lack of access to contraception and family planning services.

The population of South Sudan is highly diverse. There are over 60 ethnic groups in South Sudan, and each group has its own language and culture. The two largest ethnic groups are the Dinka and the Nuer, which make up around 40% of the population. Other major ethnic groups include the Shilluk, the Bari, the Murle, the Kuku, and the Anuak.

The population of South Sudan is largely rural and is heavily reliant on subsistence agriculture. Over 70% of the population is employed in the agricultural sector, and the majority of the population lives below the poverty line. The unemployment rate in South Sudan is also high, with an estimated 23.7% of the population unemployed.

The population of South Sudan is also highly vulnerable to conflict and violence. The country has experienced a civil war since 2013, and the conflict has caused displacement of millions of people. This has resulted in a large refugee population in South Sudan, and the country is currently home to over one million refugees.

South Sudan is also highly vulnerable to natural disasters. The country is prone to floods, droughts, and other extreme weather events, which can have devastating effects on the population. The country has also experienced a number of disease outbreaks, including cholera and malaria, which can have a significant impact on the population.

The population of South Sudan is an important part of the African continent, and it is important to understand the challenges that the population faces. The country is in need of improved access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities in order to ensure that its population can reach its full potential. With the right investments, South Sudan can become a prosperous and thriving nation.