South Sudan’s fishing industry, though largely artisanal and underdeveloped due to decades of conflict and limited infrastructure, plays a vital role in local livelihoods, especially in communities along the White Nile, Sudd wetlands, and various lakes. The country’s rich freshwater systems are home to an abundance of fish species, with Nile perch (Lates niloticus), tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), catfish (Clarias spp. and Bagrus spp.), and tigerfish (Hydrocynus spp.) ranking among the top catches. Traditionally, fishing in South Sudan has been practiced using simple gear like nets, lines, and traps, mostly for subsistence and local markets. The industry’s history is closely tied to the region’s natural resources and cultural practices, but growth has been hampered by conflict, lack of investment, and poor infrastructure. However, with peace and stability, there is significant potential for expansion, modernization, and increased contribution to food security and rural incomes.
| Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Freshwater fishes nei | 47,000 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.