A Scoping Review of Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation in South Sudan (2021–2026): Gendered Dimensions in Juba, Western Equatoria, Jonglei, and Eastern Equatoria

This scoping review provides a systematic mapping of the literature concerning the gendered dimensions of climate change impacts and adaptation in South Sudan. It addresses a critical gap in synthesising how climate-induced environmental changes, particularly those affecting natural resources and livelihoods, intersect with gender to influence women’s wellbeing, agency, and economic security. Adhering to the methodological framework of Arksey and O’Malley, the review involved systematically searching academic databases (including Scopus and Web of Science), institutional repositories, and relevant grey literature sources for the period 2021–2024. Search terms combined keywords related to climate change, gender, and South Sudan. Identified records were screened against pre-defined inclusion criteria, with data from selected studies charted to capture key themes, methodologies, and gaps. Preliminary findings indicate that climate shocks, notably intensified flooding and drought, exacerbate women’s burdens in securing water and domestic energy, intensifying health risks and time poverty. This often constrains their participation in livelihood activities and community governance, marginalising them from adaptation decision-making and finance. The review concludes that effective climate adaptation in South Sudan must adopt gender-transformative approaches, recognising women as critical agents of change. It provides a foundational evidence map to inform policies that align climate action with gender equality in fragile states.