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A group of children sit together to eat at school.

South Sudan

Mary’s Meals supports more than 81,000 children every school day in South Sudan

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Where we work

Life in South Sudan

South Sudan is currently ranked 191 out of 191 countries and territories in the Human Development Index (HDI) and is one of the most under-developed countries on earth.

South Sudan, officially the Republic of South Sudan, is a landlocked country in East-Central Africa which shares borders with six neighboring countries including Ethiopia to the east, Sudan to the north, Uganda and Kenya to the south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Central African Republic.

South Sudan became the world’s youngest nation when it gained independence from Sudan, on July 9 2011. The current economic climate is making life intolerable for the vast majority of people in South Sudan, with 58% of the population being identified as having insufficient food intake (this rises to 67% in Lake States). Almost 70% of the population earn below the International Poverty Line ($2.15 per day).

More than one third of all children under-five years old suffer chronic malnutrition and some 2.4 million children of primary school age – around 70% of this age group - are out of school – the highest figure anywhere in the world and a stark reminder of the need for Mary’s Meals in South Sudan.

a volunteer serves food

Mary's Meals in South Sudan

Mary’s Meals has been serving school meals in South Sudan since 2008 (originally in Sudan). 

We work with two partners, the Diocese of Rumbek and Mary Help Association.

Together, we are reaching more than 81,000 children in over 120 places of education every school day.

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When did we start working in South Sudan?

We have been working in South Sudan since 2008 (formerly Sudan).

How many children do we feed in South Sudan?

We serve school meals to more than 81,000 children in over 120 schools

What meal do we provide?

A typical school meal consists of a grain (maize, sorghum or rice) with beans.

Where are we based/where do we operate?

The Lakes, Warrap and Bahr el Ghazal states.

What is the capital of South Sudan?

The capital city of South Sudan is Juba

What language(s) are spoken in South Sudan?

English is the official language of South Sudan with more than 60 indigenous languages also spoken

What currency is used in South Sudan?

South Sudanese pound (SDG)

What is the population of South Sudan?

The population of South Sudan is 10,997,000