South Sudan’s Government Workers Go Over a Year Without Pay Amid Economic Struggles

Juba, South Sudan – Government workers in South Sudan, including civil servants and army officers, have not received their salaries for over a year, raising concerns about the country's deepening economic crisis. Despite repeated promises from the government, thousands of public servants continue to struggle to make ends meet, with many turning to alternative means of survival.

In December 2024, the government managed to pay only one month's salary to the affected workers, leaving them still facing more than a year’s backlog of unpaid wages. The situation has hit critical sectors like healthcare and security the hardest, with reports of doctors earning as little as $38 per month—barely enough to afford basic necessities.

Public servants, including teachers, police officers, and soldiers, have expressed frustration over the prolonged salary delays. Many workers say they have resorted to borrowing money, working side jobs, or depending on humanitarian aid to survive.

"Our families are suffering. Prices of food and other essential items keep rising, but we have nothing to buy them with," said a Juba-based government employee who requested anonymity for fear of repercussions.

The South Sudanese economy has been in turmoil due to multiple factors, including declining oil revenues, corruption, and ongoing political instability. The country heavily relies on oil exports, but global price fluctuations and mismanagement of funds have worsened the financial crisis.

The health sector is among the worst affected. Many doctors and nurses have left their jobs or sought work in neighboring countries due to the low salaries and poor working conditions.

"How can we survive on $38 a month? Many of us have families to support. Some of my colleagues have left the country," said a doctor at Juba Teaching Hospital.

The security sector is also in jeopardy, as soldiers and police officers—who are responsible for maintaining order—remain unpaid. Experts warn that continued delays in salary payments could lead to increased crime, desertions, or unrest within the ranks.

Government’s Response

Officials have acknowledged the salary crisis but attribute the delays to economic difficulties. Finance Minister Bak Barnaba Chol said the government is working on a solution but did not provide a clear timeline for when salaries would be fully paid.

"We understand the struggles our workers are facing. The government is committed to addressing this issue and ensuring that salaries are paid as soon as possible," Chol stated.

However, many workers remain skeptical, as similar promises have been made in the past without significant improvement

The ongoing salary crisis has fueled public discontent, with some workers threatening protests if payments are not made soon. Civil society groups and opposition leaders have called on the government to prioritize the welfare of its employees and address financial mismanagement.

As South Sudan continues to navigate its economic challenges, the fate of thousands of government workers remains uncertain, with many hoping for urgent intervention before the crisis worsens further.