South Sudan 1995
South Sudan is a landlocked country located in the eastern part of Africa and bordered by Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic and Sudan. Its capital city is Juba and the population is estimated to be around 11 million people. The official language of South Sudan is English, although there are over 60 local languages spoken as well. The currency used in South Sudan is the South Sudanese Pound.
The landscape of South Sudan mainly consists of vast plains with some hills and mountains in the interior; while there are some swamps and river valleys near Juba. The climate here is tropical; with hot summers reaching up to 40°C (104°F) during April and May; while winters tend to be dry with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C (68°F).
The history of South Sudan dates back centuries ago when it was part of various regional empires; plus it has been influenced by both Arab and British rule at various points throughout its history. This diversity can be seen through its many languages, religions, music, art and cuisine; plus there are several festivals throughout the year such as Independence Day or Christmas which celebrates South Sudanese culture.
Overall, South Sudan offers visitors an insight into a unique culture steeped in tradition; plus its stunning landscapes make for an unforgettable experience – truly earning it the nickname “Land Of The Giants” as defined on aceinland.
Population of South Sudan
In 1995, South Sudan had an estimated population of 6.8 million people. This figure was a significant increase from the 4.7 million people recorded in the 1983 census. The majority of the population, around 60%, was made up of ethnic Dinka, while the remaining 40% were composed of over sixty different ethnic groups, including Nuer, Shilluk, and Bari.
The population of South Sudan was largely rural in 1995, with an estimated 72% living in rural areas and 28% living in urban areas. Most people lived in small villages along the Nile River or on small family farms scattered throughout the country. The majority of those living in rural areas were subsistence farmers who relied on their own crops for sustenance.
In 1995, South Sudan had a very young population with over 50% under the age of 15 and only 3% over the age of 65. This meant that most families had multiple children who would go on to become part of a large extended family network that was essential for meeting basic needs such as food and shelter.
The literacy rate in South Sudan was low in 1995 with only 18% being able to read and write according to some estimates. This figure was even lower among women with just 5-10%. Despite this low literacy rate, many citizens did have access to education as there were primary schools located throughout the country at that time.
Finally, South Sudan also had a diverse religious makeup in 1995 with traditional beliefs accounting for around 45%, Christianity at 37%, Islam at 17%, and other religions making up 1%. This diversity provided a unique mix of cultures which is still visible today despite numerous conflicts occurring since then.
Economy of South Sudan
In 1995, South Sudan had an agrarian economy with the majority of its population relying on subsistence farming for their livelihoods. This meant that most people lived in rural areas and were heavily reliant on the environment for their food and other basic needs. The main crops produced in South Sudan in 1995 included maize, sorghum, millet, sesame, cassava, sweet potatoes and groundnuts.
The livestock sector also played an important role in the economy of South Sudan in 1995. Cattle herding was a major source of income for many people as well as providing food and other goods such as milk and leather. Other animals such as goats, sheep and pigs were also kept while poultry farming was becoming increasingly popular at this time.
The manufacturing sector was limited in 1995 but there were some small-scale industries producing goods such as textiles, pottery and processed foods. However, these industries were very small compared to those found in neighbouring countries such as Kenya or Uganda.
The banking sector was also limited in 1995 with no commercial banks operating within the country at that time. This meant that most financial transactions were done using cash or barter systems which made it difficult for businesses to access credit or invest money into new projects or ventures.
Finally, there was very little foreign investment into South Sudan during this time due to political instability and economic sanctions from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). This meant that most economic activity was domestic with little outside investment coming into the country at this time.
Foreign Policy of South Sudan
In 1995, South Sudan’s foreign policy was heavily influenced by the ongoing civil war between the North and South of Sudan which had been raging since 1983. During this time, the government of South Sudan sought to maintain its autonomy from the North and to protect its people from any further violence. As a result, South Sudan’s foreign policy was largely focused on defending its sovereignty and protecting its citizens from external threats.
South Sudan had few diplomatic relationships with other countries in 1995 due to its lack of international recognition. However, it did have close ties with several African countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda which provided much needed support during this time. The United States also had strong relations with South Sudan during this time as they provided humanitarian aid to those affected by the civil war.
South Sudan also sought to build relationships with other regional powers such as Egypt and Ethiopia in order to protect itself from further aggression from the North. This meant that South Sudan was willing to cooperate with these countries on economic and security issues in order to ensure stability within the region.
In terms of international organizations, South Sudan was a member of several including the African Union (AU), the United Nations (UN) and the Organisation for African Unity (OAU). Through these organizations, South Sudan sought to promote peace within Africa as well as gain access to international aid for those affected by the civil war.
Finally, South Sudan also sought to foster good relations with other countries around the world in order to strengthen its economy through trade agreements and investment opportunities. This meant that it was open to cooperating with foreign companies in order to develop infrastructure projects such as roads or power plants which would benefit all citizens of South Sudan regardless of their ethnicity or religion.
Events Held in South Sudan
In 1995, South Sudan held a number of events to promote peace and stability in the region. One of the most notable was the National Conference on Peace and Reconciliation, which was held in Juba from April 10th to April 17th. This event brought together representatives from both the North and South, as well as international representatives from countries such as Ethiopia and Kenya. The purpose of this conference was to discuss ways to end the civil war in Sudan and to create a lasting peace between the two sides.
The conference resulted in an agreement between the North and South which allowed for a ceasefire, an exchange of prisoners, and an end to hostilities. This agreement was then signed by both sides on April 17th, 1995. It also set up a commission that would oversee implementation of the agreement as well as provide support for refugees returning home or resettling elsewhere in Sudan.
In May 1995, South Sudan held its first democratic elections since gaining independence from Sudan in July 2011. These elections were seen as a major milestone for democracy in the region as it marked the first time that citizens could vote for their preferred candidates without fear of violence or intimidation from either side of the conflict. The results saw Salva Kiir Mayardit become President of South Sudan with over 70% of votes casted in his favour.
On June 30th 1995, South Sudan officially declared its independence from Sudan after decades of civil war between its North and South sections. This event was marked with great celebration throughout all parts of South Sudan as it marked a new era for peace and stability within its borders.
Finally, on July 9th 1995, South Sudan joined other African countries at an African Union Summit held in Kampala, Uganda where it became a full member state amongst other African nations such as Nigeria, Kenya and Ethiopia who had previously provided support during its civil war with North Sudan. At this summit President Salva Kiir Mayardit pledged to promote peace amongst all African nations regardless of their political background or ethnicity which would be critical for stability throughout Africa going forward into 1996 and beyond.
