Known for its cultural heritage, rich biodiversity and artistic traditions, South Sudan is a unique and lush country. It is the world’s youngest nation, gaining independence in 2011, located in northeast Africa. To re-establish itself after gaining independence, South Sudan is undergoing a large amount of restoration. Due to the youth of the nation and its developing government, poverty in South Sudan is an ongoing issue. However, there are many policies set in place to combat the threat of poverty. Here is a list of policies that fight off poverty in South Sudan and how they work to address the issue.

Promoting Macroeconomic Stability

A stable macroeconomy is largely beneficial for a country and its citizens. It creates an environment that leads to economic growth, reduces inflation and prevents further economic instability. It is necessary when trying to reduce poverty.

One of the methods South Sudan is using to promote macroeconomic stability is by decreasing its dependency on oil revenues. Of the nation’s income, 90% comes from these revenues, meaning diversification is an important factor in improving the economy and reducing poverty in South Sudan.

One way South Sudan is working to diversify their nation’s revenue is through sustainable agriculture. By selling ranch and farm products to markets as well as producing their own food through agricultural practices, they add another route to revenue for the nation.

South Sudan has had the help of many projects to increase its agricultural health, such as the Sustainable Agriculture & Livestock Initiative (SALPI) and Global Affairs Canada’s Project.

South Sudan is also trying to promote tourism in its country. Through its national tourism policy, which aims to support local communities and improve infrastructure as well as getting support from other countries and organizations, South Sudan is actively growing to attract tourists for its luscious natural environment and unique traditions.

Boosting Social Development and Equality

South Sudan faces many humanitarian issues due to conflict and instability in the country. However, there are organizations and agreements that work to improve social development, equally assisting poverty in South Sudan.

The Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) is an agreement between the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-opposition. It is an agreement that aims to bring about peace and stability to South Sudan. UNICEF and World Vision have both contributed to South Sudan, helping those who have been affected by conflict and displacement, providing education, food, health care, and sanitation.

The Global Partnership for Education is a major contributor to education for all, providing girl-friendly schools in South Sudan with trained teachers who know how to address gender sensitivity and prevent gender-based violence.

The National Disability and Inclusion policy in South Sudan aims to enhance the protection of South Sudanese with disabilities who may struggle due to their physical or mental abilities. Alongside this, South Sudan has also established a Rehabilitation Centre for people with disabilities to help them access proper healthcare and education.

Poverty in South Sudan: The Future

Although South Sudan is a newly independent country, leading to constant economic and social struggles, with the help of these policies and the organizations and governments that work to enforce them, South Sudan can grow into a thriving, self-sustained nation.

– Sevyn Whatley

Sevyn is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr