In maps and charts: South Sudan’s 15 years of independence
Summary
South Sudan became the newest country in the world in 2011 when almost all voters chose to leave Sudan. Fifteen years later, the country still faces many problems like poverty, violence, and political struggles, and many promises made at independence have not been met.Key Facts
- South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in July 2011 after a 99% vote in favor.
- The country is very poor, with 82% of people living below the poverty line.
- Oil makes up about 90% of the government’s income, but the economy depends on pipelines going through Sudan.
- There has been no national election since independence, and the next one is planned for late 2026.
- South Sudan is governed by a transitional unity government formed under a 2018 peace deal, but fighting continues in several states.
- Key political groups include the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and the opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO).
- President Salva Kiir has been in power since independence, backed mainly by the Dinka ethnic group.
- Vice President Riek Machar leads the SPLM-IO and is supported by many in the Nuer ethnic group.
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