There is a lot of confusion surrounding the difference between Sudan and Southern Sudan. This article will aim to clear up any misunderstandings and provide accurate information about both regions. So, what is the distinction between Sudan and Southern Sudan? And why is it important? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Sudan?
Sudan is a country located in Northeast Africa. Sudan is the third-largest country in Africa, after Algeria and Sudan. Sudan is bordered by Egypt to the north, the Red Sea to the northeast, Eritrea and Ethiopia to the east, South Sudan to the south, the Central African Republic to the southwest, Chad to the west, and Libya to the northwest. Sudan has an estimated population of 41 million people (2017), making it the 34th most populous country in the world. Sudan’s capital and largest city are Khartoum, located in Sudan’s far north.
Sudan’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, oil production, and livestock raising. Sudan was once part of ancient Egypt but became its own independent kingdom in circa 350 BCE. Sudan was ruled by several different kingdoms and empires over the centuries before becoming a colony of Great Britain in 1898. Sudan gained independence from Britain in 1956 but has since been plagued by civil war and instability.
What is Southern Sudan?
Southern Sudan is a region in Sudan that is located to the south of the country. Southern Sudan is home to a number of different ethnic groups, and the region has a long history of conflict with the government of Sudan. In 2011, Southern Sudan became an independent country, and it is currently known as the Republic of South Sudan. Southern Sudan is a diverse and vibrant country, and it is home to many different cultures and languages. The people of Southern Sudan have a deep sense of pride in their culture and heritage, and they are working to build a prosperous future for their country.
Difference between Sudan and Southern Sudan
Sudan is a country located in northeastern Africa. Southern Sudan is a region located in Sudan. Sudan is bordered by Egypt to the north, Chad and the Central African Republic to the west, South Sudan to the south, and Ethiopia and Eritrea to the east. Southern Sudan is bordered by Sudan to the north, Uganda to the east, Kenya to the south, and Ethiopia to the west. Sudan has an area of approximately 967 thousand square miles while Southern Sudan has an area of approximately 443 thousand square miles.
The population of Sudan is approximately 37 million while the population of Southern Sudan is approximately 11 million. Arabic is the official language of Sudan while English is the official language of Southern Sudan. The currency of Sudan is the Sudanese pound while the currency of Southern Sudan is the South Sudanese pound.
Conclusion
The referendum in January 2011 led to the creation of South Sudan as an independent country. However, there are still many challenges facing the new nation. In particular, relations between Sudan and South Sudan have been tense since the split. There is much work to be done in order for both countries to live peacefully side-by-side.
