South Sudan’s economy is expected to expand by 22 per cent in 2026 as oil exports recover and macroeconomic conditions improve, according to a new report by the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The AfDB said the positive outlook depends on sustained stability in South Sudan, neighboring Sudan and the wider Red Sea region, which are important routes for oil production and transit exports.
Speaking at the launch of the South Sudan Country Focus 2026 report in Juba, AfDB Senior National Country Economist for South Sudan, Hoth Chany, said economic growth is projected to stabilise at around 4.8 per cent in 2027.
The report, however, warned that South Sudan’s dependence on oil makes the economy highly vulnerable to external shocks. It called for increased investment in agriculture, livestock, mining, tourism and renewable energy to diversify economic growth and strengthen long-term resilience.