Economic Turmoil in South Sudan

The rupture of a key oil pipeline has exacerbated South Sudan's economic crisis, with soldiers and civil servants unpaid for nine months. Protests over salary delays are mounting in the capital, Juba. President Salva Kiir has criticized mismanagement and ordered a crackdown on corruption. Inflation and high food costs are worsening the situation.

The recent rupture of a crucial oil pipeline has further strained South Sudan's economy. Soldiers and civil servants have not been paid in nine months, prompting some to seek alternative income or abandon their jobs entirely.

South Sudan's economy heavily relies on oil exports via neighboring Sudan, but ongoing conflict in Sudan led to the pipeline's February rupture. This has significantly reduced oil revenues, compounding South Sudan's long history of mismanagement.

With protests intensifying in Juba due to non-payment of salaries, President Salva Kiir has criticized financial mismanagement and ordered new finance ministers to address corruption. Meanwhile, inflation and soaring food prices have added to the nation's woes.

(With inputs from agencies.)