UNDP and Ministry of Agriculture Secure $17 Million Grant to Empower Rural Farmers in South Sudan

By Fuli Dickens Isaac

Juba – In a transformative step towards bolstering food security and economic resilience among rural communities, the National Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), has signed a landmark grant agreement worth $17 million. This initiative, supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP), aims to significantly uplift rural farmers across the country.

The funding is designated for the Rural Enterprises for Agricultural Development (READ) project, which seeks to improve food security, increase household incomes, and enhance resilience against economic and environmental challenges. This comprehensive initiative will target approximately 162,315 households across seven agricultural value chains throughout South Sudan.

During the signing ceremony, National Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Josephine Lagu, emphasized the critical nature of the READ project, asserting that it is essential for reducing the country’s dependence on imported food. “We must navigate our path towards self-sufficiency in food production,” she stated, calling for rigorous commitment from all implementing agencies to ensure the project’s success. Minister Lagu also pledged her oversight of the initiative, aiming for effective outcomes at the grassroots level.

Dr. Mohamed Abchir, the UNDP Country Representative, reaffirmed the UNDP’s dedication to supporting South Sudan in tackling local food security challenges. “This $17 million grant will empower beneficiaries to confront the issues they face directly in their communities,” he said. “UNDP is fully committed to partnering with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to address food insecurity throughout the nation.”

The READ project is poised to make a significant impact by enhancing rural enterprises and strengthening local food systems, thereby uplifting communities across South Sudan. As the nation continues to grapple with economic and environmental challenges, this initiative marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards sustainable agricultural development and food security.