The Political Economy of Natural Resource Extraction in South Sudan: A Central African Perspective

The political economy of natural resource extraction in South Sudan is a critical area of study within African Studies, with implications for Central Africa’s broader economic and social development. The study employs a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis of government reports and media sources. Data collection covers multiple provinces to ensure comprehensive representation. A notable finding is the significant disparity in revenue allocation where central governments often receive more than half of revenues from extractive industries, leaving local communities underrepresented and underserved. The findings underscore the need for equitable resource management policies that prioritise community welfare and reduce corruption risks associated with natural resource extraction. Recommendations include strengthening regulatory frameworks to enhance transparency in revenue distribution, promoting inclusive governance models involving all stakeholders including local communities, and implementing educational programmes on sustainable practices.