Nuerland
Nuerland Ro̱l Naath | |
|---|---|
| Largest city | Bentiu |
| Recognised national languages | Nuer language (Thok Naath) |
| Religion | Christianity (syncretistic or otherwise), Nuer religion |
| Demonym | Nuer people |
| Area | |
• Total | 98,419.5482 km2 (38,000.0000 sq mi) |
| Population | |
• Estimate | 4.5 million |
| Today part of | part of South Sudan and Ethiopia |
Nuerland (Thok Naath: Ro̱l Naath, Arabic:بلد النوير, Nickname: the True Savannah) is the indigenous homeland and traditional territory of the Nuer people, located largely within South Sudan between latitudes 7° and 10° north and longitudes 29° and 32° east. The region covers parts of Upper Nile State, Jonglei State, Unity State, and surrounding areas, and is characterized by swamps, savannahs, and higher ground.
The Nuer are a Nilotic ethnic group primarily engaged in pastoralism, with cattle playing a central role in their economy, social organisation, and cultural practices. The seasonal flooding of Nuerland influences the community's semi-nomadic lifestyle, as people move between higher ground and swampy areas according to the dry and wet seasons.
Historically, the Nuer have had complex relations with neighbouring ethnic groups, including the Dinka and Shilluk, as well as with colonial authorities. These interactions were often marked by conflict and competition over resources.