World Bank Group, in partnership with the Government of South Sudan, has launched a new report calling for urgent and coordinated action to turn the country’s rapid urban growth into a catalyst for economic recovery, job creation, and long-term resilience.

The report highlights the growing importance of cities and towns in a country that remains one of the least urbanized in the world. Despite only about one-fifth of the population currently living in urban areas, South Sudan is experiencing a significant urban transition driven by displacement, climate-related pressures, and economic factors.

South Sudan’s urban population has grown dramatically from about 1.7 million in 2011 to 2.6 million presently, according to the report “South Sudan Urbanisation Review: Cities as Anchors of Recovery and Resilience.” A large portion of this expansion has happened without proper planning, putting more burden on local institutions, public services, and infrastructure that are already under stress.

The World Bank cautions that rapid urban growth could exacerbate already-existing problems if it is not managed effectively. However, it contends that urbanisation may become a potent force for stability, economic opportunity, and better living conditions with the correct investments and legislative changes.

In a nation still struggling with violence, displacement, and development issues, the report highlights that cities have the capacity to sustain livelihoods, improve access to basic services, and spur broader economic transformation.

Speaking at the launch, former South Sudan’s Vice President and Chair of the Economic Cluster, Dr. James Wani Igga, stated that the government recognizes the increasingly important role urban centres will play in driving national recovery and development.

“We are committed to strengthening urban management, improving service delivery, and enabling more resilient and inclusive urban growth. We call on our partners to align efforts and support the implementation of this roadmap for the benefit of all citizens.”
Dr. James Wani Igga

The World Bank also stressed that South Sudan’s urban transition presents a unique opportunity to stimulate economic growth while improving resilience against future shocks.

Charles Undeland, World Bank Group Country Manager for South Sudan, added that, “South Sudan’s urban transition is an opportunity not to be missed in generating jobs, fostering resilience, and improving the lives of the country’s population.”

“The findings of this Urbanization Review underscore the importance of strengthened urban planning, enhanced service delivery, and more effective management of land and resources to enable cities to serve as engines of stability and economic opportunity.”
Charles Undeland,

He urged both national and local authorities to embrace coordinated policies and strategic investments that can unlock the economic potential of urban areas while delivering tangible benefits for communities.

Roadmap for Urban Transformation

In order to help South Sudan better manage its urban growth and guarantee that growing cities support national development, the paper also lays forth a number of doable reforms.

Increasing access to essential services through targeted investments in water supply, sewage systems, drainage infrastructure, urban highways, and street lighting especially in underprivileged places experiencing significant population growth is one of the main proposals.

The necessity of using urban investments as a lever for job creation is also emphasised in the report. It suggests building markets, transportation corridors, and labour-intensive public works initiatives that can boost regional economies and generate jobs.

Urban planning and land governance are recognised as crucial areas in need of reform. In order to lessen future vulnerabilities, the research recommends actions to resolve land conflicts, enhance land administration transparency, and encourage risk-informed urban growth.

The World Bank also suggests bolstering urban data networks to enhance service delivery, investment choices, and planning. It contends that improved data will enable authorities to more efficiently deploy resources and identify priority regions.

The assessment also highlights the significance of strengthening institutional capacity at the local and national levels by giving public entities in charge of service delivery and urban development more authority.

Cities at the Centre of Development

The findings imply that as population shifts and climate constraints continue to alter settlement patterns throughout the nation, urban centers are playing a bigger role in South Sudan’s development trajectory.

Urban regions are becoming vital centers for social support and economic activity as more people move to towns and cities in quest of safety, jobs, and essential services.

According to the World Bank, more coordination between government organisations, local governments, development partners, and communities will be necessary to manage this shift successfully.

The South Sudan Urbanisation Review is the outcome of in-depth study and discussions with a wide range of stakeholders, government agencies, and development partners.

By placing cities at the centre of national recovery efforts, the report argues that South Sudan can transform urban growth from a challenge into an opportunity creating jobs, strengthening resilience, and laying the foundation for more inclusive and sustainable development in the years ahead.