41 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved Innovation in Economy & Policy Research Vol. 6, Issue 1 (January – June, 2025) pp: (41-51) Economic Hardship and Declining Living Standards in South Sudan James Ajuong Arou 1 , Kanbiro Orkaido Deyganto 2* 1 Vice Chancellor, Department of Administrative and Management, Star International University Juba, South Sudan 2 Research Consultant, Department of Research and Development, Star International University Juba, South Sudan * Corresponding Author: k.orkaido@aiu.edu Received Date: March 04, 2025; Published Date: March 20, 2025 Abstract This study investigates the economic hardship and declining living standards in South Sudan through a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative data analysis from governmental and international organization reports with qualitative insights derived from interviews with South Sudanese citizens. Utilizing a purposive sampling technique, the research targets a diverse demographic by selecting 200 households from both urban and rural populations. This sampling strategy aims to capture the varied experiences and challenges faced by low-income families and vulnerable groups, including the elderly, women, and internally displaced persons. Data collection involved surveys focused on personal economic conditions and in-depth interviews exploring lived experiences, providing a comprehensive view of the current economic landscape. Findings indicate that South Sudan’s economic difficulties stem from a multifaceted interplay of corruption, inflation, conflict, tribalism, and political instability. Empirical evidence reveals the urgent need for systemic reforms to address these interconnected challenges. The study emphasizes that sustainable economic growth and improved living standards necessitate comprehensive policy interventions that promote transparency, economic diversification, and enhanced political stability. It advocates for prioritizing reforms in public administration, social protection programs, and conflict resolution strategies to effectively reverse the declining conditions. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the socio-economic issues facing South Sudan, identifying critical areas for intervention by both the government and development partners to foster long-term resilience and recovery. Keywords- Corruption, Economic hardship, High unemployment rate, Inflation, Limited income, Living standards, South Sudan, Tribalism INTRODUCTION The South Sudanese economy centers on oil revenue that provides the bulk of government funding since independence. The country encounters substantial obstacles, such as repeated conflicts that interrupt oil production and worldwide oil price changes, which add additional pressure on its financial resources (World Bank, 2021). The economic crisis has worsened due to limited revenue diversification alongside ineffective tax systems and widespread corruption. The government faces financial difficulties in funding essential services such as health care and education because of production disruptions in the oil sector caused by on-going