Fact 1: The Youngest Country in the World
South Sudan is the youngest country in the world. It gained its independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011, following a referendum where nearly 99% of South Sudanese voted in favor of a split from their northern neighbors. This independence came after decades of civil war with the north that resulted in millions of lives lost.
Fact 2: Home to Wildlife Diversity
Despite the nation's volatile history, South Sudan shelters a diverse wildlife population. It is home to the world’s second-largest wildlife migration of a range of species including hartebeest, gazelles, and tiang, which participate in seasonal migrations that rival the much famed migrations in East Africa.
Fact 3: Distinctive Flag
South Sudan’s flag is one of its most recognizable features. It showcases a pair of crossed sabers that represent the memory of those who fought for independence, a shield symbolizing the country’s willingness to defend itself, and a golden eagle symbolizing strength, resilience and vision.
Fact 4: The Mighty Nile
The River Nile, the longest river in the world, traverses the entire length of the country from south to north, providing a lifeline for millions of South Sudanese who depend upon it for their livelihood. The river significantly contributes to the country's agricultural economy.
Fact 5: A Multilingual Nation
South Sudan is a linguistic melting pot, with more than 60 indigenous languages spoken. The official language is English, but most people still communicate in their native tongues.
Fact 6: Strong Cattle Culture
The South Sudanese pastoral communities attach significant cultural and economic importance to cattle. Cows are a symbol of wealth and status and play a significant role in social events like marriages where they are often given as bride price.
Fact 7: Rich in Mineral Resources
South Sudan is laden with significant mineral resources. Apart from oil resources, it has untapped deposits of iron ore, copper, gold, diamonds, zinc, and uranium.
Fact 8: The Dinka: World’s Tallest Tribespeople
South Sudan is the home of the Dinka people, who are recognized as one of the world’s tallest tribes. Many Dinka men measure well over 6 feet tall on average.
Fact 9: A Country of Savannahs
South Sudan is a country dominated by savannah vegetation zones, characterized by tropical grasslands and sparse tree growth. This primarily promotes a pastoral and agricultural way of life.
Fact 10: Nimule National Park
The Nimule National Park in South Sudan is a haven for wildlife lovers, with significant populations of elephants, Uganda kob, and hippos. Despite numerous challenges, the park's wildlife population has demonstrated surprising resilience.
Fact 11: Unique Cuisine
South Sudanese cuisine is an intriguing blend of traditional African foods, Arab influences, and British colonial traces. Staple foods include millet, maize, yams, and a variety of meats.
Fact 12: The Sacred Corbels
Within South Sudan lies the 'City of the Dead', an ancient archaeological site, holding distinctive circular tomb structures called corbeled domes. These are unique to the region and have been standing for hundreds of years.
Fact 13: Boma Plateau: A Spectacular Wilderness
Boma Plateau in South Sudan is an elevated savanna region. It's breath-taking landscapes, wildlife, and fascinating indigenous cultures add to its enchanting lure. The park is also known for its annual antelope migration, which is one of the largest of such animal movements on Earth.
Fact 14: Sudd: The Endless Swamp
The Sudd is one of the world’s largest swamps, located in none other than South Sudan. This swamp provides habitat for countless aquatic birds and animals and plays a critical role in supporting local livelihoods.
Fact 15: Wrestling: The National Sport
South Sudan's most popular sport is wrestling, and it's often a part of significant cultural celebrations. It's more than just a sport—it's a pathway to fame, respect, and even marriage in the community.
Fact 16: Love for Music and Dance
Music and dance play a massive part in South Sudanese culture. It's used for narration of folklore, celebrating, grieving, and even used in religious events. Their folk music is rich, using a wide array of traditional instruments.
Fact 17: The Eye-Catching Beaded Corset
Tribal body decoration is a significant part of South Sudanese culture. A striking example is the beaded corset or ‘Manlual’ worn by men of certain Dinka sub-tribes. This ritual corset signifies age, status, and wealth.
Fact 18: The Kingdom of Kush
South Sudan was once part of the ancient Kingdom of Kush. The Kushites were known for their expertise in pottery, finely crafted jewelry, and well-planned cities.
Fact 19: The Nuba Mountain People
South Sudan is home to the Nuba people, renowned for their colorful body art, wrestling culture, and traditional dances. The Nuba Mountains provide a refuge and a vibrant cultural melting pot for these distinct communities.
Fact 20: The Mundari Tribe and Their Bulls
Among South Sudan's tribes, the Mundari stand out for their astounding kinship with their cattle. The tribe is known for bathing in and drinking cattle urine as a disinfectant, creating beds around their cattle for protection, and even naming their cattle as one would name their children. This intimate relationship underlines the vital importance of cattle in their culture and daily survival.