A recent report by the World Bank reveals that poverty remains a significant issue in South Sudan despite its abundant resources. The South Sudan Poverty and Equity Assessment (PEA) Report, released on December 10, 2024, indicates that after a decade of economic decline, 76 percent of South Sudanese live below the national poverty line. Furthermore, extreme poverty affects over two-thirds of the population.
The report attributes this widespread poverty to historical and systemic issues such as persistent conflicts, inadequate state capacity to provide essential services, weak governance, and recurring natural disasters. These factors have heightened vulnerability among households and weakened their ability to handle future shocks.
Charles Undeland, World Bank Group Country Manager for South Sudan, stated: “Weak governance, multiple shocks, lack of economic opportunity, high food prices, and conflict have all contributed to increased poverty and vulnerability. South Sudan’s challenges are many, but I also think that there are real opportunities to improve peoples’ livelihoods."
Vulnerability is described as nearly universal at over 99 percent. This is largely due to low levels of human and physical capital among the population. To address this issue effectively, investments in basic services and infrastructure are deemed necessary.
Frank Adoho, World Bank Senior Economist for South Sudan said: “Food insecurity is a widespread issue in South Sudan and has worsened recently with the spike in inflation." He emphasized that investing in agriculture and road infrastructure could help reduce food insecurity by enhancing market integration.
The report calls for investment in data collection to close existing gaps which hinder informed policymaking. Dr. Augustino Ting Mayai from the National Bureau Statistics remarked: “Effective policymaking relies on credible evidence."
The World Bank Group reaffirms its commitment to supporting South Sudan's development goals and improving its citizens' well-being.