b. Explain how political, economic, and social conflicts

resulted in the independence of South Sudan.

 

East-Central Africa, south of Sudan, north of Uganda and Kenya, west of Ethiopia

South Sudan is a republic Capital city is called Juba

The people who live in the region of South Sudan have wanted to be separated for years (since 1800’s)• They do not follow Islam • They do not get along with the other Sudanese

people When Sudan gained its independence in

1956, it was thought that the southerners would be able to participate fully in the government

However, the Arab government did not follow its promises

This led to a revolt • 1955-1972 1st civil war• 1983-2005 2nd civil war

Around 2.5 million people died - mostly civilians - due to starvation and drought

Around 5 million people have been displaced or become refugees

Peace talks resulted in a Comprehensive Peace Agreement -signed in January 2005

As part of this agreement, the south was granted a six-year period of independence

These 6 years were to be followed by a vote on a final status

The result of the vote (held in January 2011) was a vote of 98% in favor of secession

Independence was attained on July 9, 2011

South Sudan is rich in oil reserves However, it is landlocked and there is

not much industry and growth Widespread poverty Govt spends a lot of money to

maintain a large army