A new country in Africa?

When the borders for Africa were drawn up they disregarded the situation on the ground - in terms of ethnicity, religion and culture. This has caused problems ever since. After decades of war and unrest, south Sudan will vote next week on a referendum to secede from the north.

Nearly 4 million voters are registered. For the south to gain independence, a turnout of 60% of registered voters is required. Bashir, Sudan's Prime Minister, reassured the public that he will respect the outcome of the referendum.

The case for seccession is strong. Sudan, the largest country in Africa, has been plagued by violence and unrest for decades. It is said that the government ruling in Khartoum discriminate against the non-Muslims (largely Christians and traditional religions) in the south. Therefore, a government in Juba, the capital of south Sudan, will create a better society for those in the south.

However, the case against independence may be stronger. The south have very little experience of governing itself. The land area of south Sudan is bigger than France and Germany combined. With a population of 7 million, shoddy infrastructure and shocking living standards, is a south Sudan really a practical solution?

Perhaps this will only be a short-term impediment. An independent south may perhaps be the catalyst to reverse their fate. It is reassuring that Bashir has promised to help the south more after the referendum, whatever the outcome. Juba will need it.