South Sudan which is also known as the Republic of South Sudan is situated in northeastern Africa, landlocked by Ethiopia, Sudan, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and Kenya. It possesses a plethora of lush savannas, rainforests, and swamps that host ample species of wildlife.
South Sudan was part of the Republic of Sudan along with its neighboring country in the north, Sudan. However, its blend of African cultures with Christian or animist beliefs struggles in the Muslim and Arab governments in the north. In 2011, South Sudan gains its independence, making it the newest sovereign state with wide recognition.
However, even after its independence, South Sudanese has experienced ethnic violence, a civil war caused by human rights violations, ethnic killings, and massacres of journalists that started in December 2013. The suffering ends in February 2020 when a coalition government is initiated by country leaders Salva Kiir Mayardit and Riek Machar.
Currency In South Sudan
South Sudan’s official currency is the South Sudanese pound which is equivalent to 100 piasters. The currency launches in July 2011, replacing the Sudanese pound at the same rate and pegged to the USD. Its first issues of banknotes are in denominations of 1,5, 10,25, 50, 100, and also 200 pounds. In October 2011, it issued additional banknotes in 5, 10, and 25 piasters. These notes feature revolutionary leader John Garang de Mabior who served as the First Vice President of the country. His portrait is on the obverse of each banknote as well as a warrior spear from the Dinka tribe.
To combat inflation, the 500 South Sudanese paper bill begins to circulate in 2018. Just like other Sudanese money, the green banknote also portrays John Garang de Mabior and a Dinka warrior spear on the obverse. The reverse of this banknote displays Africa’s longest river, the Nile River. In 2020 a 1,000 Pound banknote comes out and it’s currently the largest denomination.