The population of Tonj is diverse, comprising several ethnic groups such as the Dinka, Shilluk, and Nuer. Historically, Tonj has been an important settlement for the Dinka people, who use the area as a grazing ground during the dry season. Over the past decades, the town has been affected by the conflicts that have shaped modern South Sudan, leading to periods of displacement and resettlement. In recent years, efforts by the government and international organisations have focused on rebuilding infrastructure and improving basic services.
Economically, Tonj is largely agrarian. Subsistence farming of millet, sorghum, and maize dominates, while cattle breeding remains the most significant source of income for many households. There is also a growing market in the town for dairy products, bushmeat, and handcrafted goods. Small-scale trade with neighbouring communities provides access to limited consumer goods and fuel.
Transport to and from Tonj is primarily by road, with a main all-weather highway linking it to the national capital, Juba, through the Ad Daqahili and Akobo towns. The road network, however, remains susceptible to seasonal damage, particularly during the rainy season when heavy flooding can render stretches impassable. The nearest air transport services are located in larger southern cities, requiring overland travel to reach Tonj.
Educational facilities include a number of primary and secondary schools, many of which receive support from humanitarian agencies aimed at improving literacy rates among children. Healthcare provision is limited to a primary health clinic that offers basic medical services; access to more comprehensive care requires travel to larger regional centres. Public services such as electricity are largely unreliable, with most households depending on solar panels or diesel generators.