Canadian Funding Fuels Agricultural Turnaround
A three-year initiative funded by Global Affairs Canada and delivered by Catholic Relief Services is transforming food production and social cohesion in South Sudan’s Lakes State, officials observed during a recent field visit to Rumbek East and Yirol West counties.
From Subsistence to Surplus
On the sandy fields of Akot Payam, 26-year-old farmer Amuong Maker showed how collective support expanded cultivation from 60 to 100 hectares, yielding abundant sorghum, millet, beans and groundnuts that now cover household meals and children’s school costs.
A women-run roadside restaurant in Aluakluak Payam, financed through a micro-grant, has become a buzzing meeting point and proof that value chains can emerge even in formerly volatile areas.
Women Drive Local Economies
More than sixty percent of the 6,000 direct participants are women, many opening solar charging kiosks, savings groups or market stalls. State gender minister Angelina Mario praised the shift, noting that investing in women multiplies benefits across entire communities.
Harvests as Pathways to Peace
Local chiefs report that farm cooperatives spanning county borders have reduced disputes over grazing corridors and water points. CRS country manager Dr. Tapfuma Murove linked the bumper harvests to calmer relations, calling the programme “food for peace in action”.
State Institutions Anchor Progress
Three state ministries sit on the project steering committee alongside the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, ensuring alignment with agricultural, gender and peacebuilding policies. Officials say this structure accelerates decision-making and paves the way for scaling successful approaches.
Prospects for Wider Impact
Community members thanked Canadian taxpayers and urged additional support so neighbouring payams can replicate the model. CRS says further funding would consolidate gains and help South Sudan inch closer to lasting food security and stable inter-communal relations.