Improving food security in South Sudan

Context

The food situation in South Sudan is more precarious than it has ever been since the country gained independence in 2011. Two out of three people regularly have too little to eat.

More than 80 per cent of the country’s population work in agriculture in order to feed themselves. However, ongoing conflicts and crises, combined with the effects of climate change, have destroyed their livelihoods. Despite massive humanitarian aid, households cannot improve their food situation and protect themselves against crises.

Objective

The affected population has improved its food situation and is better equipped to deal with crises.

Approach

The project works with the World Food Program (WFP) and the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). It provides transitional development assistance, develops structures and trains those with responsibility. The aim is to reduce dependency on humanitarian aid and better equip the population for crises in the long term.

• Expanding agricultural production: The project trains smallholder farmers in improved cultivation methods, provides seeds and production inputs, and advises agricultural cooperatives.
• Managing natural resources and disaster risks: To build a foundation for agricultural production in the long term, the project supports municipalities in preparing risk analyses and management plans. Local committees implement the joint measures, such as erosion control and constructing dams and reservoirs.
• Promoting healthy nutrition: The project educates smallholder households on varied and healthy nutrition. It also provides information about improved hygiene and care practices for babies and infants and how to plan their budget to maximise nutrition.

The project operates at the interface between humanitarian aid and development. It implements measures in close coordination with the United Nations’ Partnership for Recovery and Resilience, international donors and non-governmental organisations.

Last update: June 2022