South Sudan is Africa’s youngest nation, having gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after decades of civil war. Located in East-Central Africa, it’s a landlocked country of approximately 11-12 million people comprising over 60 different ethnic groups. English is the official language, though Arabic and various local languages are widely spoken.
Despite its independence, South Sudan has faced enormous challenges including ongoing civil conflict that erupted in 2013, humanitarian crises, economic instability, and underdeveloped infrastructure. Millions of people have been displaced both internally and as refugees to neighboring countries. The conflict has severely hampered development efforts and left much of the population dependent on humanitarian aid.