Sustainable Agriculture for Economic Resiliency Program in South Sudan (SAFER)

The program was implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) with funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The primary goal of the program was to enhance the economic resilience of vulnerable communities in South Sudan through sustainable agriculture practices. The program focused on improving agricultural productivity, market access, and income generation for smallholder farmers. The program also emphasized the importance of conflict sensitivity, resilience, and cross-cutting issues such as gender and social inclusion. During the reporting period from January 1 to March 31, 2021, the program achieved several key milestones. Assessments were conducted in Jonglei and Eastern Lakes to evaluate the status and viability of groups associated with the program. The assessments revealed the resilience of many SAFER groups despite facing serious shocks to their homes and livelihoods due to flooding and conflict. The program also conducted trainings on improved agricultural practices, water and soil management, and enterprise development. A total of 518 beneficiaries participated in SAFER project trainings, including 208 beneficiaries in Rumbek Centre, 91 beneficiaries in Jonglei, and 145 beneficiaries in Western Equatoria. The trainings focused on climate-smart agriculture practices, such as sunken beds and mulching, to maximize limited water resources. Infrastructure development was also a key component of the program. Market shades, slaughter slabs, and boreholes were constructed and handed over to communities in various locations, including Aweil, Yirol, Bor South, and Yambio. The facilities included water tanks, septic tanks, and toilets, although some were incomplete due to lack of boreholes. The program also collaborated with new implementing partners, including the Norwegian Refugee Council, Joint Aid Management, World Vision International, and Norwegian People's Aid. The partnerships aimed to expand the program's reach and impact in different parts of South Sudan. Overall, the SAFER program made significant progress in improving the economic resilience of vulnerable communities in South Sudan. The program's focus on sustainable agriculture practices, market access, and income generation helped to enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and their families.