Oxfam in South Sudan launched a two-year agricultural empowerment project aimed at strengthening the role of women and youth in the country’s agricultural value chain.
The initiative seeks to enhance sustainable livelihoods by equipping women and youth with the skills, resources, and market access necessary to thrive in agriculture — a sector that holds great potential for economic growth, food security, and community resilience in South Sudan.
Speaking at the launch event in Central Equatoria State, Hon. Lilly Kapuki Paul, State Minister of Agriculture, encouraged local communities to fully embrace the opportunity.
“This project provides our women and young people a real chance to take ownership of their economic future. I urge all communities to actively participate, increase production, and supply agricultural goods to markets in Juba and beyond,” she said, representing Governor Gen. Rabi Mujung.
The program will focus on capacity-building across key areas of the agricultural chain, including production, post-harvest handling, processing, and market linkage.
Special emphasis will be placed on climate-resilient farming techniques, agribusiness management, and cooperative development.
Amb. Mahlodi Sam Muofhe, South Africa’s Ambassador to South Sudan, reaffirmed his government’s support for grassroots solutions to long-term challenges such as poverty and unemployment.
“This initiative reflects the spirit of South-South cooperation. South Africa remains committed to supporting peace, stability, and development in South Sudan. Empowering communities, especially women and youth, is central to that mission,” he stated.
The UNDP South Sudan Representative, Dr. Mohamed Abchir, highlighted the project’s development-driven approach and its alignment with national priorities, especially women’s economic empowerment.
“At the core of this initiative is our shared belief that development cannot happen without inclusion. Through interest-free loans and practical training, we’re creating space for women to play a leading role in building South Sudan’s economy,” he said.
The project will be implemented across select counties in Central Equatoria, with plans to expand based on performance and community impact. Beneficiaries will receive training, startup inputs, and financial support through micro-credit schemes, while local cooperatives and community groups will be engaged to strengthen sustainability.
This project is in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and with funding from the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Trilateral Cooperation Initiative, has officially
The IBSA Fund, a collaborative effort between India, Brazil, and South Africa, is known for supporting development programs that promote inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the Global South.
This initiative marks another milestone in advancing gender equity and youth empowerment in South Sudan, where agriculture remains a backbone of the economy and a key to future peace and stability.
