Population
South Sudan has a population of between 12 and 14 million. According to the JAM, 60% of the population are children below 15 years of age. Since 1983 more than 4 million people have been displaced while about 2 million died. Many more still live in exile and in refugee camps in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia and in the North. Most of these people are poor. Current estimates indicate a poverty level of between 70 - 90% of the population. Most poor live in the rural areas.  However, influx of returnees means poverty is going up in the emerging urban areas. 

Economy
The economy is dominantly informal, and the trade sector is dominated by foreign-based goods. Barter trade is still dominant in most parts of South Sudan. The introduction of a common currency (Sudanese pound) is a move in the right direction towards formalising the economy. There are pockets of economic activities emerging in key towns such as Juba, Rumbek, Torit, Malakal, Nimule and Yei. In addition, there are emerging frameworks for economic activities that are being developed (trade, agriculture, financial services) led by governments that will enable recovery in the productive sectors. Elaborating on these procedures and guidelines will support the transformation of the economy.

People
More than 62 ethnic groups are living in South Sudan.