Blog Post Archives

Explainer: Why cyber threats and scams remain a challenge in South Sudan?

November 7, 2024/in Blog Post, Explainer, Fact-check, Facts & Reports

Misinformation and disinformation have been weaponised as tools to build trust and to create convincing narratives in phishing email messages or inbox alerts that influence users to accept or take action, whether by revealing their sensitive information.

Writer: Makur Majeng

As the digital space in South Sudan evolved, it has opened the door to cyber threats and scams from social media platforms and other online channels. The digital space continues to be the biggest driver of information dissemination among human populations, powered by both internet and mobile telecommunications penetration in the country.

Facebook and WhatsApp are widely used means of communication for a great majority. However, these platforms have become grounds for numerous cyber threats and scams—a real danger to users.

Cyber threats are malicious acts that seek to damage data, steal data, or disrupt digital systems. It is normally perpetrated by individuals, criminal organisations, state actors, and terrorist organisations to achieve specific objectives.

Social media scams are suspicious activities by individuals who create fake profiles or pages and unexpectedly contact users on social media to gain their trust and manipulate them. A social media scammer pretends to be a friend, family member, or anybody with specific interests.

On the other hand, they impersonate real business entities, employers, the government, and investment or online trading platforms.

This explainer provides an analysis to understand why such threats continue in South Sudan’s social media space.

Cyber Threats and Scams

According to a joint advisory issued by SafetyComm and 211 Check, in September this year, there are different categories of cyber scams rampant in South Sudan.

There have been false alarms where users receive notification messages directly in their inbox or email claiming to be sent from Meta or Facebook about page verification, violations of community standards, and copyright infringement.

Some of these messages contain threats of account deletion or suspension and demand users to click malicious links within the next few hours. The intention is to entice the users to click malicious links that may lead to the compromise of their accounts.

In addition to that, a phishing attack has been used to acquire personal information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details. The attack weaponised malicious links embedded into the false alarm notification messages by those masquerading as trustworthy individuals or entities.

These cyber threats and scam operations involve social engineering techniques by cybercriminals seeking to manipulate victims into providing their confidential data.

This method involves using lures to obtain clicks, masquerading as known entities or contacts to entice the victim into providing confidential data like passwords, and clicking on a malicious link embedded within job advertisements, promotions, fake giveaways, or investment schemes.

In the last five years, SafetyComm recorded a total of 854 compromised social media accounts between 2021 and 2024. Most of the cyber threats and scams take place on the Facebook platform, which amounts to 57.3%, with WhatsApp (22.8%) and Instagram (18.9%), as documented by the SafetyComm.

The dangers that come after being comprised is that confidential data not meant for the public will get its way into the hands of unauthorised persons, leading to identity theft, data loss, and, in the worst-case scenario, unauthorised access to private materials like nudes.

Common Cyber Scams

Scammers send messages with claims that a user’s profile has met the requirements for a verified badge from Meta, and then users are asked to click shady links within 24 hours before it expires. Users received false alerts that they had violated Meta’s Community Standards by allegedly using fake photos or distributing misleading content and directing users to request a review through a malicious link.

Also, scammers threaten users that their accounts have violated copyright infringement and will be deleted if users fail to repeal the incident through a dubious link.

So why are cyber scams still rampant in South Sudan?

Many social media users do not have the necessary basic cyber security knowledge and tools to detect and prevent deceptive messages or fraudulent activities. This makes them vulnerable to clicking on malicious email links without a second thought as to whom the link is coming from, as well as reacting to providing confidential personal data when asked by impersonators.

There are no strong mechanisms now to enforce cyber laws due to a lack of legal basis and expertise by law enforcement agencies in prosecuting various cyber fraud schemes. The Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Bill is still in parliament for deliberations. This shortcoming has empowered cybercriminals to perpetrate deadly operations against online users in the country.

The Role of Misinformation and Disinformation

Misinformation and disinformation have been weaponised as tools to build trust and to create convincing narratives in phishing email messages or inbox alerts that influence users to accept or take action, whether by revealing their sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, and personal details or by doing what the message has urged them to do.

In this context, by spreading false or misleading information, attackers and scammers exploit online users’ emotions in terms of fear and curiosity to lure them in by clicking on malicious links or providing confidential data.

Conclusion:

The digital landscape in South Sudan has significantly remained vulnerable to cyber threats and scams. This is due to a lack of strengthened information technology infrastructure and a lack of digital literacy skills among online users, which leaves them vulnerable to social engineering tactics employed by cybercriminals.

The absence of enforceable cyber laws has created an environment where perpetrators operate with relative impunity, exploiting loopholes and targeting unsuspecting users on platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp.

To overcome these threats, there is a need to improve cybersecurity infrastructure and enhance digital literacy to empower the public on how to detect and avoid cyber scams. Besides, the national parliament should fast-track the enactment of the Cybercrime and Computer Misuse law to set the stage for enforcement to protect online users.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

It’s vital to fight misinformation and disinformation in the media by avoiding fake news. Don’t share content you’re uncertain about. False information can harm and mislead people, risking their lives—Fact-check before sharing. For more details, visit https://211check.org/, or message us on WhatsApp at +211 921 350 435. #FactsMatter.

Explainer: Implications and Significance of South Sudan Archbishop Ameyu being made a cardinal

October 30, 2023/in Blog Post, Explainer

Writer: Emmanuel Bida Thomas

Metropolitan Archbishop of the Catholic Diocese of Juba, Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, has become the first-ever Cardinal from South Sudan since the country gained independence in 2011

The Pope named Stephen Ameyu during a noontime Sunday prayer from St. Peter’s Square on 09 July 2023 alongside 20 other clergymen worldwide. They became cardinals in a ceremony held on 30 September 2023.

Stephen Ameyu says that his selection as a Cardinal is a testament to the church’s work, recognised by Pope Francis. He underlined the importance of their ongoing efforts and the hope they instil in South Sudan’s people.

“There are many expectations of us. For example, what does my appointment as a Cardinal mean for the Catholic Church in South Sudan? It is simply the continuation of the work we have been doing that the Holy Father has witnessed the face of God’s people in South Sudan. This appointment shines a spotlight on us, particularly most young people, and we are grateful for the recognition,” Archbishop Ameyu asserted.

The appointment of South Sudan Archbishop Stephen Ameyu as a cardinal by the pope carries several implications and significance. Here are some key points:

Recognition of Leadership and Service: The appointment of Archbishop Ameyu as a cardinal is a recognition of his leadership, service, and dedication to the Catholic Church. It acknowledges his contributions to the Church and his commitment to peace and reconciliation in South Sudan.

Representation of South Sudan: Cardinal Ameyu’s appointment is significant for South Sudan as it highlights the importance of the region and the Catholic Church’s presence there. It provides a platform for Cardinal Ameyu to advocate for the needs and concerns of the people of South Sudan at the highest levels of the Church.

Role in the College of Cardinals: As a cardinal, Archbishop Ameyu becomes a member of the College of Cardinals, which is responsible for advising the pope and participating in the election of a new pope when the position becomes vacant. Cardinals play a crucial role in shaping the policies and direction of the Catholic Church.

Influence in Church Affairs: Cardinal Ameyu’s appointment gives him a more excellent voice and power in Church affairs. He can contribute to discussions and decision-making processes within the Church, particularly on issues related to South Sudan and Africa.

Symbol of Hope: In a country that has faced significant challenges, including tribalism and conflict, Cardinal Ameyu’s appointment serves as a symbol of hope and encouragement for the people of South Sudan. It highlights the Church’s commitment to peace, reconciliation, and the nation’s well-being.

Representation of Diversity: Cardinal Ameyu’s appointment reflects the Catholic Church’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity. He is one of the few cardinals from Africa and the first cardinal from South Sudan. This diversity brings different perspectives and experiences to the College of Cardinals.

The appointment of South Sudan Archbishop Stephen Ameyu as a cardinal holds great significance for the Catholic Church, South Sudan, and the African continent. It recognises his leadership, provides a platform for advocacy, and symbolises hope for a country striving for peace and stability.

Will Stephen Ameyu have to leave his archbishop position?

No, Stephen Ameyu will not have to leave his position as Archbishop of Juba in South Sudan due to his appointment as a cardinal.

The role of a cardinal is an additional responsibility within the Catholic Church hierarchy, and it does not require the individual to step down from their current position. Cardinal Ameyu will continue to serve as the Archbishop of Juba while also fulfilling his duties as a cardinal.

The appointment of a cardinal does not automatically result in a change of position or location for the individual. Cardinals are often chosen from existing bishops or archbishops who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service to the Church. In this case, Cardinal Ameyu’s appointment recognises his contributions to the Catholic Church in South Sudan and his role as the Archbishop of Juba.

Therefore, Cardinal Ameyu will continue to carry out his responsibilities as the Archbishop of Juba while also participating in the broader responsibilities and duties associated with being a cardinal.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

Fighting misinformation and disinformation in the media is crucial to avoiding fake news. Don’t share content you’re uncertain about. False information can harm and mislead people, risking their lives—Fact-check before sharing. For more details, visit https://211check.org/ or message us on WhatsApp at +211 917 298 255. #FactsMatter.

Explainer: Drug abuse and why it is crucial to be in the know

September 15, 2023/in Blog Post, Explainer, Fact-check, Facts & Reports

Drug abuse, a term used for obsessive and excessive use of drugs, is a common problem the world over, with South Sudan not an exception. Though hard to resist, the use of drugs can be controlled with proper medication and guidance.

Writer: Diana Juan Leju

According to a report by UNODC, around 284 million people aged 15-64 used drugs worldwide in 2020, a 26 per cent increase over the previous decade. Young people use more drugs, with use levels today in many countries higher than in the previous generation. In Africa and Latin America, people under 35 represent the majority of people being treated for drug use disorders.

Globally, the report estimates that 11.2 million people worldwide are injecting drugs. Around half of this number were living with Hepatitis C, 1.4 million were living with HIV, and 1.2 million were living with both.

Drug Abuse, also known as substance abuse, is the use of a drug in amounts or by methods that are harmful to the individual or others, according to Wikipedia. Drug abuse is thus a chronic disease characterised by the inability of the abusers to resist their harmful consequences.

Drug Abuse is seen in various age groups and in individuals from nearly all walks of life and socioeconomic strata. However, men are more likely to abuse drugs than women. Single people are more likely to abuse drugs than married individuals, urban dwellers are more likely to abuse drugs than rural dwellers, and prisoners, street children, and younger individuals are more likely to abuse drugs.

A picture of some samples of drugs

Drug abuse, a term used for obsessive and excessive use of drugs, is a common problem the world over, with South Sudan not being an exception. Though hard to resist, the use of drugs can be controlled with proper medication and guidance.

Repeated use of drugs results in the development of addiction, which has harmful consequences. For instance, regular use of drugs is self-damaging in that it leads to addiction and causes behavioural changes. Drug abuse, on the other hand, particularly impacts the brain and can lead to other health issues, such as Kidney failure and heart problems. Drug abuse also impacts a person’s mental and physical health, causing significant damage to the brain. It hampers a person’s power to practise self-control and interferes with their ability to resist the urge to take drugs.

People usually turn to Drug abuse to curb the stress caused by the following: family issues, pressure at work, growing competition in schools, relationship problems, a feeling of emptiness, and financial issues, among others. It doesn’t matter what the reasons are; it’s essential to understand that drug abuse only aggravates the problems rather than solving them.

Initially, drugs are taken out of choice. However, it becomes harder to resist them sooner than you realise. It’s challenging to recover from this problem, even those who risk developing it again.

Categorically, drug abuse falls into three groups, which include

Depressants that cause depression of the brain’s faculties include sleep pills (barbiturates) and heroin.

Stimulants: These cause brain stimulation, giving rise to alertness and increased bursts of activity. A rapid heart rate, dilated pupils, raised blood pressure, nausea, and behavioural changes such as agitation and impaired judgement may also result. In severe cases, there may be delusional psychosis, which can occur with cocaine and amphetamines.

Hallucinogens: These cause hallucinations and an out-of-this-world feeling of dissociation from oneself. Hallucinogens such as ecstasy, mescaline, and LSD may cause distorted sensory perception, delusion, paranoia, and even depression.

In addition to the above, commonly abused drugs include alcohol, tobacco, cocaine from coca, opium and opioids from poppy plants, hashish or marijuana from cannabis, and synthetic drugs such as heroin, ecstasy, and LSD.

Administration: Drugs of abuse can be administered orally in the form of a pill, intravenously in the form of an injection, by inhaling the substance in the form of smoke, or by snorting the substance so that it’s absorbed into the blood vessels of the nose.

Drug abuse can stem from several reasons. Peer pressure plays a significant role; many give in to fit in and take drugs. The euphoric effects of drugs create a “feel good” feeling, making individuals overlook the harm they may cause. Mental health illnesses can heighten vulnerability to addiction, as individuals may mistakenly rely on substances to cope. Biological factors also come into play, as genetic predispositions or mental disorders can drive drug use. The age at which an individual starts taking drugs also matters, with teenagers being more susceptible to addiction. Lastly, environmental factors such as family problems, influence from lousy company, work-related stress, and lack of guidance and support from parents or teachers can also lead to drug abuse.

UNDOC offers various medication options to individuals at different stages of drug abuse. Treatment typically spans an extended period to minimise the risk of relapse. To overcome this problem, seeking expert guidance and visiting a medical professional to receive appropriate medication is recommended. Most individuals suffering from drug abuse are urged to join a rehabilitation centre to control the problem. Treatment involves training the patient’s brain to adjust to life without drugs to control drug cravings. In cases of drug cessation, individuals may experience stress, anxiety, and mood swings and can be prescribed medication to overcome these symptoms. Medications are also being developed to prevent relapse triggered by various factors. A healthy diet and regular exercise are encouraged to replenish the damage caused by drug abuse and improve physical and mental well-being while managing stress.

In South Sudan today, a new drug dubbed “ice” has sprung up. Research shows that “ice” is a street name for the drug methamphetamine, or meth in its rock or crystal form. Methamphetamines are stimulants that let people stay awake and do continuous activity with less need for sleep.

Photo showing Ice or Methamphetamines

They’re swallowed, inhaled, smoked, or injected into a vein. Ice consumers feel high and full of energy, and they, in turn, believe that their bodies will keep working without tiring. Contrary to this belief, ice damages the body and brain, especially with repeated use.

In South Sudan today, an honourable business at the front of this drug sale prevents concerned persons from discovering its distribution source.

Once consumed, one is bound to remain high for an extended period, ranging from twelve to twenty-four hours. This describes the severity of this drug’s impact on the consumer.

With a starting price of (SSP 2000 -2500), one can part ways with a few grammes of Ice, which is barely enough for the addict. This, in turn, causes financial issues for the employed consumers. On the other hand, it coerces unemployed teenagers and youth to resort to theft to be able to afford the drug.

The short-term side effects of the drug include failure to sleep, loss of appetite, rapid breathing, an irregular heart rate, increased blood pressure, and even unconsciousness. In contrast, long-term use causes brain damage, causing memory problems and death.

Conclusion:

Those who have fallen prey to this problem can seek expert guidance to overcome it. Proper medication, support from loved ones, and solid willpower can take one out of the “Dark World of Drug Abuse.”

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.

Data Story: South Sudan’s population surges to 12.4 million, reveals 2021 survey

April 29, 2023/in Blog Post, Data and Statistics, Explainer, Fact-check, Facts & Reports, Reports and Publications

The survey is expected to be an essential resource for the government’s development planning, decision-making, and provision of services as it provides the latest accurate population estimates and other demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the inhabitants.

Writer: Jibi Moses

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in South Sudan released the Population Estimation Survey 2021 (PES) on April 6th, 2023, revealing a surge in the country’s population to 12.4 million people, a rise of over four million people. The PES 2021 was conducted between May 28th and June 15th, 2021, across ten states and three Administrative areas, with a female population of 52.9% and a male population of 47.1%, while the youth population stands at 77%.

The PES 2021 is expected to be an essential resource for the government’s development planning, decision-making, and provision of services. The survey will monitor the performance of the National Development strategy and the sustainable development goals while providing policymakers with briefs and reference points for research.

With South Sudan’s last census conducted in 2008, the PES 2021 provides the latest accurate population estimates and other demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the inhabitants. The NBS utilised satellite imagery and enumeration to ensure the quality of information and data for the survey met the basic assumptions of the analytic method.

Despite the impact of civil war outbreaks since independence in 2011, the PES 2021 provides a comprehensive and up-to-date representation of South Sudan’s population, enabling policymakers and decision-makers to implement evidence-based planning and decision-making for progress and sustainable development in the country.

The country’s last Census was in 2008, when it was still an autonomous region of Sudan. While releasing the results, Isaiah Chol Aruai, the chairperson of NBS, explained that the figures are based on satellite imagery and enumeration across ten states and three Administrative areas.

“The quality of information and data for a given locale, as well as the ability of the data to meet the basic assumptions of the analytic method, are key to performing accurate estimates or projections,” Isaiah Chol Aruai said.

S/No.	State/Administrative area	Modelled Population Estimates
1	Upper Nile	790,147
2	Jonglie	791,105
3	Unity	892,780
4	Western Bahr El Ghazal	562,555
5	Northern Bahr el Ghazal	1,924,342
6	Warrap	2,639, 484
7	Lakes	1,265, 473
8	Western Equatoria	663,233
9	Central Equatoria	1,324,521
10	Eastern Equatoria	981,902
11	Greater Pibor A A	240,102
13	Ruweng AA	234,416
14	Abyei	133,955
	Total	12,444,018

Fig 1.0: A table showing the data of the PES 2021 | Source: National Bureau of Statistics

National statistical offices often produce estimates and projections of various characteristics of a population. These statistics are a vital source of information for decision-makers throughout the government, the private sector, and civil society. An estimate calculates a population’s size or distribution or another population characteristic for the present or past. At the same time, a projection describes these characteristics in the future.

In most countries, policymakers and other data users often require accurate information between census data releases every ten years. Although a full population count only occurs during a census, statistical methods and tools often produce regular, up-to-date population estimates.

Population estimates can describe the population size and demographic characteristics such as age, sex, or education level. Population estimates depend on change’s demographic components: mortality, fertility, and migration.

Estimates of mortality, fertility, and migration estimates are derived from data available from censuses, surveys, registration systems, and other administrative records. Estimates and projections are calculated similarly. However, estimates employ observed data and hypotheses of demographic change when data are incomplete. Projections, on the other hand, rely on hypotheses about demographic change in the future.

One of the most widely used approaches for producing population estimates and projections is the Cohort Component Method, which can be used to calculate detailed statistics such as population by age and sex, total fertility rate, infant mortality rate, and population growth rate. A population may also be estimated and projected for multiple geography units, from the national to various subnational levels (e.g.States, Counties, Districts, Payams, Bomas).

**Figure 2**: *A bar chart showing the total populations from the ten states and the administrative Areas |* **Source:** Flourish Studio Data Visualization

**Fig 3**. *A stacked bar chart showing the figures of the two most recent population census in 2008 and the PES 2021 |* **Source**: Flourish studio data visualization.

**Fig 4**: *A bar chart showing the population percentage between the two censuses, 2008 and PES 2021 |* **Source**: Flourish Studio Data Visualization

Criticisms from the Public:

The PES 2021 report was received with much scepticism and criticism from the public. Individuals and organisations criticised the authenticity of the data. Some voices challenging the report can be found in this article by The East African and an analysis by The Sudd Institute.

“Some opposition politicians and some in the civil society questioned the estimates that put the total of the country’s population to 12,444,018 and are demanding what they term “a proper census” as per the 2018 peace agreement. UN estimates had put the population at 11,556,069 even though the UN itself partly supported the current survey,” reports The East African

Augustino T. Mayai, the Managing Director of the Sudd Institute, an independent research organisation, analysed the scientific, political, and policy implications of the PES results stating that the new estimates are in stark contrast with South Sudan’s 2008 census counts, which stood at 8.26 million, informing the 2010 regional and national elections. These estimates, he says, “…have so far generated heated debates in various quarters, with many outright contesting them for a host of good reasons.”

However, on the 13th of April, NBS clarified that the PES 2021 results should not be used for electoral purposes, Juba Echo, but for planning and policy guidance, such as Something Augustino T. Magai questions.

‘’…if the PES results cannot be used for electoral purposes, then it is odd to use them

for development. Using the scientifically troubled PES results for development (i.e.,

distributing services) is more problematic than using them for politics. This is because

development is for the ‘greater good for a greater number of people,’ as should be obvious,

South Sudan’s politics benefits a select few. Let me illustrate. Suppose the Northern Bahr el Ghazal government constructs 50 new schools in Aweil East based on the current estimates, subsequently recruiting teachers and enrolling students. It then dawns on the government that only ten such schools must be based on actual enrollments. The result then boils down to resources wasted and injustice inflicted on populations that genuinely deserve the services but could not get..,’’ as quoted in his report.

Conclusion:

Much as the PES 2021 results announced, NBS decried a lot of challenges in bringing out accurate and perfect results; among these, they cited the insecurity in parts of the country, floods that had submerged a lot of the inhabited land areas, lack of resources both financial and human. However, against all odds, they could still get the necessary data.

The PES 2021 results put the current estimated population at 12,446,016, with an increment of 4,186,335 from the 2008 population census, which had the country at 8,260,490. This shows an annual percentage growth of 3.9%.

The current population of South Sudan is 11,556,786 as of Tuesday, April 25th 2023, based on the latest United Nations data. With 43% of the population below 14, 54% between 15 – 64 and 3% representing 65 and above.

Population estimates are a vital source of information for decision-makers throughout the government, private sector, and civil society. In most countries, policymakers and other data users often require accurate information between census data releases every ten years. Although a full population count only occurs during a census, statistical methods and tools often produce regular, up-to-date population estimates.

Demographic components such as mortality, fertility, and migration must be considered to ensure the accuracy of population estimates. Estimates of these components are derived from data available from censuses, surveys, registration systems, and other administrative records. The Cohort Component Method is widely used for producing population estimates and projections.

Given the importance of accurate population estimates, it is recommended that South Sudan conducts regular surveys and censuses to ensure policymakers have the necessary information for decision-making. Innovative methods such as satellite imagery and enumeration can enhance the quality of information and data collected during surveys and censuses. Policymakers should prioritise evidence-based planning and decision-making for progress and sustainable development in South Sudan.

This article is part of our data stories work written with the firm belief that factual and data-driven reporting can influence decision-making and public perceptions and educate the audience on public interest issues.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we at 211 Check welcome corrections from our readers. If you spot an error in this article, please request a correction using this form. Our team will review your request and make the necessary corrections immediately, if any.