The initiative aims at empowering marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, to improve agricultural practices and promote sustainable development

By Binia Elizabeth

The India, Brazil, South Africa (IBSA) Fund, in partnership with the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, UNDP, and Oxfam, has launched a new pilot project to empower women and youth through agriculture in Luri and Rejaf, Central Equatoria State.

The launch event, which brought together government officials, international partners, and the community, is aimed at empowering marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, to improve agricultural practices and promote sustainable development. The project focuses on increasing vegetable farming to enhance food access, create jobs, and improve incomes for women and youth.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Lily Kafuki, the State Minister of Agriculture, emphasized that farming is key to achieving a food-secure South Sudan.

On his part, UNDP resident representative Dr Mohamed Abchir said the project will enhance food security and economic opportunities through vegetable farming while address the barriers faced by vulnerable groups, including survivors of gender-based violence, young mothers, and individuals with disabilities engaged in agriculture.

He further added that the initiative aims to provide access to quality seeds, better tools, and agricultural training while enabling women and youth to secure interest-free loans and access markets through an innovative e-commerce platform.

“This project embodies the vision of inclusive development that empowers the most vulnerable to be catalysts for change,” said Dr. Abchir

“We are not just improving agricultural production but helping build resilient communities that can withstand the changing climate and future challenges. This is just the beginning. Together, we will build a brighter, more resilient future, where women and youth are at the forefront of a sustainable agricultural revolution,” he added.

South African Ambassador to South Sudan, Adv. Mahlodi Muofhe, highlighted the significance of the project, noting that its launch coincided with South Africa’s Women’s Month and International Youth Month.

“This project is a practical demonstration of Ubuntu I am because you are. It is an African solution to an African problem,” Amb. Muofhe said, emphasizing on the role of South Sudan’s youth in contributing to peace and prosperity.

He said the initiative is about creating opportunities for women and youth to thrive and to inspire broader change across South Sudan.

Shabnam Baloch oxfam’s Country Director said the project, which aligns with the South Sudan Blue Economy Strategy and Sustainable Development Goals, aims to boost agricultural production, stabilize household food security, and increase incomes.

She reinforced the importance of community driven solutions, saying, “Through this project, we are not just planting seeds in the soil, but also planting hope for a brighter future.”

In addition to the agricultural focus, the project aims to create a ripple effect in the local economy by involving South Sudanese youth and women led companies in its implementation.

As South Sudan celebrates Women’s Month and International Youth Month, the launch of the ‘Empowering Women and Youth to Drive Sustainable Agriculture Project’ serves as a timely reminder that real change begins when communities come together and work towards a common goal.