Inside Story

Are South Sudan’s leaders benefiting from conflict?

A report from a watchdog accuses South Sudanese leaders of amassing vast fortunes as millions struggle to survive.

South Sudan gained its independence five years ago with much fanfare. 

It was hailed as the world’s newest nation with an incredible amount of optimism.

But a bitter rivalry between President Salva Kiir and his former deputy Riek Machar resulted in civil war.

Tens of thousands of people have been killed and millions more have been displaced from their homes.

Many fear the country is fast becoming a failed state.

A new investigation from the Sentry Group – cofounded by Hollywood actor George Clooney – has found that while most of the population lives in near famine conditions, top officials are getting richer.

So, what is happening inside South Sudan? And what can be done to help the people?

Presenter: Hazem Sika

Guests:

Ateny Wek Ateny – Spokesman for the president of South Sudan

Brian Adeba – Associate director of policy at the Enough Project

Peter Biar Ajak – Founder and director of the Centre for Strategic Analysis and Research