Youth Unemployment and Insecurity in the Greater Horn of Africa: A Case Study of Munuki Payam In South Sudan

This thesis investigates the relationship between youth unemployment and insecurity in Munuki Payam, a suburb in Juba county of South Sudan. The youth of South Sudan live in a precarious state characterized by limited access to education, abject poverty and inadequate economic opportunities; they constitute over 70% of the country’s population. Unfortunately, the country’s independence in 2011 did not change the situation as many young lives are spent in violence and illegal activities that create a security challenge. Hence, in such a historically volatile environment where causes of violence are always changing, it is important to explore and understand the different elements that cause violence and insecurity in the country. The research used the survey method of data collection. Out of 100 respondents selected for the interview, only 97 completed the questionnaires. The study also relied on secondary data sources that included the University library, academic journals, previously published theses and internet. For data analysis, the research study used tables, pie-charts and bar charts. The research findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between youth unemployment and insecurity in Munuki Payam, thus there should be sustained effort by the Government of South Sudan to address the issue of youth unemployment as a growing challenge in the Payam and nation wide. The study recommends further research on the role of youth in post-conflict reconstruction and development in South Sudan.