South Sudan
Country statistics · 1990–present
South Sudan at a Glance
South Sudan is home to 11.9 million people as of 2024, with a population that is growing very rapidly. At a GDP per capita of $567, it is a low-income economy — reflecting an economy where significant development opportunity remains. Life expectancy at birth stands at 57.7 years, well below the global average, reflecting ongoing public health challenges.
Population Trends
The total resident population stood at 11.9 million as of 2024. With a birth rate of 29.2 and a death rate of 9.8 per 1,000 people (2024), the natural growth rate stands at 19.4 per 1,000 — equivalent to roughly 232,000 additional residents each year from natural change alone.
Economy & Development
South Sudan is a small economy, with a total GDP that is projected at $7 billion (2029 IMF projection). At $567 per person, it is classified as a low-income economy — reflecting an economy where significant development opportunity remains. Real GDP growth is projected at 3.5% in 2029, representing solid growth.
Health & Society
Life expectancy at birth is 57.7 years (2024), well below the global average, reflecting ongoing public health challenges. Current health expenditure per person is $73 (2023), representing very low per-capita healthcare spending, a common constraint in lower-income economies. The adult literacy rate stands at 26.8% (2008), reflecting literacy rates that remain a key development focus.