(JUBA COUNTY) – The World Bank Group and the Government of South Sudan have launched a new report calling for urgent and coordinated action to manage the country’s rapid urban growth and turn cities into centres of economic recovery, job creation and stability.
The report, titled South Sudan Urbanization Review: Cities as Anchors of Recovery and Resilience, says South Sudan remains among the least urbanised countries in the world, with only about one fifth of the population living in towns and cities. However, urban areas are expanding quickly because of displacement, climate pressures and economic hardship.
According to the report, South Sudan’s urban population increased from about 1.7 million people in 2011 to around 2.6 million in 2026. The growth has placed heavy pressure on roads, water systems, sanitation services and local authorities, especially in fast growing urban communities including Juba and other state capitals.
The World Bank said unplanned urban growth risks worsening pressure on weak infrastructure and public services if reforms and investments are delayed. At the same time, it said cities could become an important source of jobs, trade and economic activity if managed properly.
South Sudan’s economy continues to face major pressure from conflict, climate shocks, high inflation and weak infrastructure. The report says better managed cities could help support local businesses, improve service delivery and strengthen resilience for communities affected by displacement and flooding.
Vice President Dr James Wani Igga, who chairs the government’s Economic Cluster, said the government recognises the increasing importance of urban centres in supporting national recovery and development.
He said authorities are committed to improving urban management, expanding public services and supporting more inclusive urban growth. He also called on development partners to coordinate support for the implementation of the report’s recommendations.
Charles Undeland, the World Bank Group Country Manager for South Sudan, said the country’s urban transition presents an important opportunity to create jobs, improve resilience and raise living standards.
He said stronger urban planning, better service delivery and improved management of land and resources would help cities become centres of economic opportunity and stability.
The report recommends a series of reforms and investments aimed at improving urban conditions across South Sudan.
Among the priorities identified are investments in clean water, sanitation systems, drainage networks, urban roads and street lighting, especially in rapidly expanding and underserved communities.
The report also calls for the development of markets, transport corridors and labour intensive public works programmes to support local economic activity and employment creation.
It further recommends stronger land governance systems to reduce disputes, improve transparency and support safer urban expansion in areas vulnerable to flooding and climate related risks.
The World Bank also called for improved urban data collection and analysis to help authorities make better decisions on infrastructure spending, planning and public service delivery.
Another recommendation focuses on strengthening the capacity of both national and local government institutions responsible for urban management.
The report was prepared through consultations involving government institutions, development partners and other stakeholders working in South Sudan’s urban development sector.
Although the report did not provide specific investment figures in South Sudan Pounds, analysts say implementing large scale urban infrastructure reforms would require substantial financial support from international lenders and donor partners as the country continues to face budget constraints and foreign exchange pressures.