By Anak Dut

The Country representative for the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Caroline Mwongera said rural producer organizations are not just structures but catalysts for change.

The IFAD Country Rep said they offer a platform for farmers, traders, rural entrepreneurs, women, and young people to pull their resources, share knowledge, and connect to markets.

“As the African proverb reminds us, if you want to go fast, you go alone. But if you want to go far, you go together and that’s our belief in effort while we invest in producer organizations,” Mwongera explained.

She made the remarks during the launching of the Rural Enterprises for Agricultural Development (READ) Project on Tuesday in Juba.

According to Mwongera, women are critical to South Sudan’s rural economy, yet they continue to face barriers to land ownership, leadership, and financial access. 

“By ensuring that 50% of rural producer organization members are women, READ directly addresses these gaps,” Mwongera stated.

She said the youth who make up to 70% of the rural producer organization membership stand a chance of being the future of rural enterprises.

“So, through READ, we aim to equip young people with their skills, resources, and platforms. They need to become agents of change and innovation in their communities,” she said.

 Another defining feature of READ is climate resilience.  It promotes climate-smart technologies and practices that allow rural producer organizations to improve productivity, withstand climate shocks, and build more sustainable life needs.

“So READ is a blend. It’s a blend of social inclusion. It’s a blend of youth empowerment and climate action that makes it a truly transformative project.”

Speaking at the same event, the Director General for the Ministry of Finance and Planning, John Garang said all the projects, including this particular project, should be designed to address the issues of development and humanitarian challenges in the country.

“Agriculture projects are a good example of a project that empowers user skills by enhancing their agricultural skills through capacity development,” he said.

The READ project will last a total of six-years and intends to reach a approximately 27,511rural households or 162,315 household members through 780 (456) Rural producer organizations (RPOs) and (324) RFIs. A total of six counties in six states have been selected for implementation under phase I – for regional balance. These include Aweil Centre, Magwi, Maridi, Nzara, Yambio and Renk. The flexible programming has been adopted whereby selection of additional states is contingent upon a second phase. 

“I extend my deepest gratitude to all our partners, stakeholders, and the Government of South Sudan for their commitment to this vision. Let us continue working hand in hand to ensure that every South Sudanese has the opportunity to thrive,” said Dr. Mohamed Abchir, Resident Representative for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) South Sudan.

“As we launch this program today, let us remember that agriculture is not just about food-it encompasses livelihoods, gender equality, resilience, nutrition, literacy, climate change, that will drive growth and recovery,” Dr. Abchir added.