Your Ultimate Guide to Buying and Leasing Land in South Sudan

South Sudan boasts 644,329 km² of mostly undeveloped land and a population of just 11 million. This low population density creates substantial opportunities for agriculture, residential, and commercial developments.

However, despite the vast land area, prime plots—especially in Juba, the fast-growing capital—are limited. Investors are actively searching for land for sale, while tenants seek houses and apartments for rent. To make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes, understanding South Sudan’s land policies is essential. These policies include lease terms, zoning regulations, and registration steps. Let’s explore how land ownership works in South Sudan.

Understanding Land Ownership in South Sudan

Finding prime land in Juba can be challenging. Investors frequently search for “land for sale in Juba,” while renters look for “houses or apartments for rent.” To navigate the market effectively, you need to grasp the following basics:

Land Types

Lease Terms

Zoning Rules

Registration Procedures

Types of Land in South Sudan

State Land: Public property with fewer competing claims, ideal for government projects.

Community Land: Managed by traditional leaders, often involving quicker deals but potential boundary disputes.

Private Leasehold: Surveyed and registered with lease terms ranging from 1 to 99 years, offering the most security for investors.

Securing Your Lease: Essential Steps

Obtain a survey map.

Request a registered lease or title deed.

Verify compliance with the 2023 land policy, which moves registry offices to county levels.

Important Considerations:

Both men and women have equal land rights.

Spousal signatures are mandatory for sales or leases.

In conflict-affected areas, ensure no unresolved claims from internally displaced persons (IDPs) or returnees.

Investor Checklist:

Confirm land type (state, community, private).

Check the registry for any existing liens or disputes.

Get approval from community leaders (for customary land).

Obtain a formal lease or title deed.

Apply for necessary planning permits and environmental clearances.

Budget for associated fees: registration, lease rent, taxes, and impact assessments.

Set lease renewal reminders.

Stay updated on policy changes.

Next Steps:

Visit the National Land Registry to validate property ownership.

Engage a licensed surveyor and local land expert for title verification.

We hope this guide helps you take the right steps toward securing land in South Sudan.