South Sudan is a young nation, having gained independence in 2011. However, despite being a young nation, it is a country that is rich in culture and traditions.
Unfortunately, it is also a country that is known for certain bad habits that have become ingrained in its people.
In this article, we will explore some of the bad habits that South Sudanese are known for.
1. Lack of punctuality
One of the most common bad habits that South Sudanese are known for is their lack of punctuality.
This is a habit that is seen across all aspects of life, from personal to professional. Meetings, events, and appointments are often started much later than the scheduled time, and it is not uncommon for people to arrive late to work or other engagements.
This lack of punctuality can be frustrating for those who value time and can result in missed opportunities and inefficiency.
2. Poor work ethic
South Sudanese are also known for their poor work ethic.
Many people are content to do the bare minimum at work, and there is a lack of commitment and dedication to completing tasks to the best of one’s ability. This can lead to a lack of productivity, low-quality work, and missed deadlines.
It also contributes to the slow pace of progress and development in the country.
3. Disrespect for authority
In South Sudanese culture, there is a strong emphasis on respect for elders and those in positions of authority. However, this respect is often not extended to those in positions of authority in the workplace or government.
Many people are quick to question or criticize those in power, and there is a general distrust of authority figures. This can lead to a lack of cooperation and communication, making it difficult to accomplish tasks or work towards common goals.
4. Corruption
Corruption is a major issue in South Sudan, and it is a habit that is deeply ingrained in the culture. It is not uncommon for officials to demand bribes or engage in other forms of corrupt behavior, and there is a general acceptance of these practices.
This has a negative impact on the economy, as resources that could be used for development and progress are siphoned off for personal gain.
5. Tribalism
Tribalism is another bad habit that South Sudanese are known for.
People often identify strongly with their tribal group, and this can lead to tensions and conflict between different groups. This can be seen in politics, where tribal affiliations can be more important than political ideology, and in daily life, where people may be more likely to trust and do business with those from their own tribe.
6. Lack of accountability
There is a general lack of accountability in South Sudanese society, and this can contribute to a number of problems. People may be reluctant to take responsibility for their actions, and there is a lack of consequences for those who engage in bad behavior.
This can lead to a culture of impunity, where people feel that they can get away with anything without facing consequences.
7. Substance abuse
Substance abuse is another bad habit that is prevalent in South Sudan. Alcohol and drugs are widely available, and many people struggle with addiction.
This can have a negative impact on health, relationships, and productivity, and can contribute to other social problems such as crime and poverty.
8. Gender inequality
Gender inequality is another issue that is prevalent in South Sudanese society.
Women are often excluded from decision-making and leadership roles, and may face discrimination in the workplace and in other areas of life. This can lead to a lack of diversity and a failure to take advantage of the full range of skills and talents available in the population.
9. Lack of education
Education is not prioritized in many parts of South Sudan, and this can contribute to a number of problems. People may lack the skills and knowledge needed to participate in the modern economy, and this can contribute to poverty and unemployment.
Lack of education can also make it difficult for people to make informed decisions about their health, finances, and other important aspects of life.
10. Tribal conflicts
Tribal conflicts have been a recurring problem in South Sudan for many years, and they continue to pose a significant threat to peace and stability in the country.
These conflicts are often fueled by long-standing grievances, competition for resources, and political power struggles. They can be devastating for the communities involved, resulting in displacement, loss of life, and destruction of property.
11. Poor hygiene practices
Poor hygiene practices are a problem in many parts of South Sudan, and this can contribute to the spread of diseases and illnesses.
Lack of access to clean water and sanitation facilities can make it difficult for people to maintain good hygiene, and this can have a negative impact on health and well-being.
12. Lack of respect for human rights
There have been reports of human rights abuses in South Sudan, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and other forms of violence.
Human rights violations can contribute to a culture of fear and intimidation, making it difficult for people to speak out and advocate for their rights.
13. Lack of civic engagement
There is a general lack of civic engagement in South Sudan, with many people feeling disconnected from the political process and other aspects of public life.
This can contribute to a lack of accountability and transparency, as well as a failure to take advantage of the opportunities for citizen participation in decision-making.
14. Intolerance of diversity
South Sudan is a country with a diverse population, with many different ethnic and linguistic groups.
However, there can be a lack of tolerance and understanding between these groups, which can lead to tension and conflict. This intolerance of diversity can be seen in political and social life, with people often identifying more strongly with their own group than with the country as a whole.
Conclusion
In conclusion, South Sudanese are known for a number of bad habits that can have a negative impact on the country’s development and progress. These habits are deeply ingrained in the culture and will require a concerted effort to change.
Addressing these issues will require a multifaceted approach that includes education, advocacy, and policy changes at the national and local levels.
By working together to address these challenges, South Sudan can build a more prosperous, peaceful, and inclusive society for all its citizens.
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
You summarize all the south Sudan problem need durable solution
Thanks….. It’s every citizens responsibility to work towards changing such traits….
The problem of South Sudan is leadership.
The political system is a military dictatorship- rule by decree -the few civilian in government do not decide.
The governance institutions are weak because the positions are filled by unqualified personnel- tribally appointed and yet there are highly qualified South Sudanese.
The military rulers,dominated by one tribe,have messed up the country.
The level of insecurity in the whole country has made life difficult for the ordinary people. All basic necessities are imported yet South Sudan, if given peace could feed itself even without government involvement.
Marauding armed cattle herders from the Dinka tribe have invaded Equatoria Region without government intervention. Hence the granary of South Sudan Is destroyed by displacement of the population sending thousands into refuge in the neighboring countries.
South Sudan rulers are surviving on the oil revenue only. Production is zero due to insecurity and corruption.
In fact, one can describe South Sudan as a failed state.
Basic services such as health, education, clean drinking water are limping! Water tankers drawing raw water from river Nile is what the Juba ‘City’ consumes!
The South Sudanese pound has collapsed such that a senior civil servant earns an equivalent of 50 US $.per month- the tribally privileged get subsidy.
The organized forces and ordinary workers get paid once in a while – salaries ranging from US $15-30. per month. So when you hear of unknown gunmen robbing and killing in the Juba ‘City’ the fellows are hungry!
South Sudan is not going to be saved by elections as it propagated by the government and other international bodies. They behave as if they have no eyes or ears.
They sing the song of the government- there is relative Peace! At the same time they say there is Communal violence all over the country including the Armed cattle herders causing violence in peaceful communities such as in Equatoria.
The present rulers must own up because they have failed. Despite the oil dollars, there is nothing to show for it apart from the misery of the ordinary people.
The people must decide in a Round Table Conference
HOW WE SHOULD GOVERN OUR COUNTRY.
We must agree on a POLITICAL SYSTEM THAT can guarantee JUSTICE AND EQUALITY for all South Sudanese.
A system of governance that is accountable and the corrupt must punished and looted assets seized.
In conclusion, the present rulers have failed and the situation must be overhauled.
The people must decide in a ROUND TABLE CONFERENCE on how the country is governed.
Thanks for educating us🙏
Most of those points are pretty much in every country.
The only strong specific point is tribalism.
Also it’s lack of proper education facilities and well trained teachers rather than abslout lack of education.
The writer put disrespect to authority. respect is earned … so I see it as a weak point.
Our country is beautiful and its people are resilient, cultured and beautiful.
The only reason we are in the current state is lack of proper government which is a point the writer seem to have overlooked it.
Hi… thanks for highlighting your point of view…That article is controversial to many south Sudanese but my perspective is from how the outside world views south Sudan, when they talk of South Sudan,what comes to their mind…. I know many people will not agree with me because they basically are looking on the article from a political perspective…. I enabled the comments section on the article to address people’s grievances… Thanks once again!!
yes,this is a habit of Some S.Sudanese.It would be helpful if you carry out a study so that you don’t generalize.Majority fit in this category.
Also there are no researches on South Sudan about such topics…