World Bank calls for action as South Sudan’s cities rapidly expand

Juba City - South Sudan (File Image)

The World Bank Group and the Government of South Sudan have launched a new Urbanisation Review urging urgent and coordinated action to manage rapid urban growth and turn it into a driver of recovery, resilience and inclusive development.

The report highlights that while South Sudan remains one of the least urbanised countries globally, with only about one-fifth of its population living in urban areas, city populations are expanding quickly. Urban populations have grown from 1.7 million to 2.6 million since 2011, largely driven by displacement, climate pressures and economic factors. Much of this growth has been unplanned, placing pressure on already limited infrastructure, basic services and institutional capacity.

Officials say that, if properly managed, urbanisation could play a key role in stabilising the country and supporting economic transformation. Vice President and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, Dr James Wani Igga said the government recognises the importance of cities in driving recovery and development. Igga said improving urban management and strengthening service delivery would be central to achieving more inclusive growth.

World Bank Group Country Manager Charles Undeland said South Sudan’s urban transition presents a major opportunity to create jobs, strengthen resilience and improve living conditions. Undeland said coordinated policies, stronger planning and targeted investments are needed to ensure cities can support economic growth and deliver tangible benefits for citizens.

The report outlines a series of priority reforms, including expanding access to essential services such as water, sanitation, drainage, roads and public lighting, particularly in underserved areas. It also emphasises the importance of using urban investments to generate jobs through markets, transport corridors and labour-intensive public works.

Improving land governance and urban planning is identified as another key area, with recommendations to address land disputes, improve transparency and support more structured urban expansion.

Strengthening data systems to guide planning and investment decisions is also highlighted as critical.

The report further stresses the need to build institutional capacity at both national and local levels to manage urban growth effectively.

The findings suggest that with the right policies and sustained investment, South Sudan’s cities could become central to recovery efforts, helping to create jobs, improve services and support long-term stability.

Source: https://www.channelafrica.co.za/channelafrica/news/world-bank-calls-for-action-as-south-sudans-cities-rapidly-expand/