Sustainable Independent Media Activity Quarterly Report FY2023 Quarter 2

72066822LA00002. The program aims to improve access to credible, accurate, and reliable information for South Sudanese citizens by promoting the sustainability of high-quality, independent radio operations. SIMA approaches sustainability from three angles: financial sustainability, institutional sustainability, and social sustainability. The program focuses on empowering radio stations across South Sudan, particularly in Abyei and the 13 priority counties of the USAID/South Sudan Strategic Framework. In Year 1, SIMA plans to implement activities through coordination and collaboration with technical and local partners in Abyei and 7 of the priority counties: Baliet, Wau, Jur River, Kapoeta North, Budi, Leer, and Mayendit. As of the end of the reporting period, January 1 to March 31, 2023, SIMA has achieved significant results. The number of USG-assisted media organizations and/or institutions that serve to strengthen the independent media or journalists has increased to 4, representing 40% of the annual target. This indicates that SIMA is on track to meet its annual target of 10 media organizations. SIMA's implementation progress is also notable. The program has made significant strides in promoting the sustainability of independent commercial and community radio operations, improving the quality of reporting from journalists and broadcasters, and increasing access to credible information by South Sudanese citizens. The program has also demonstrated its ability to collaborate and adapt to the needs of its partners and stakeholders. In terms of geographic coverage, SIMA has a presence in the following counties and areas in South Sudan: Abyei Administrative Area, Central Equatoria: Juba County, Eastern Equatoria: Kapoeta North and Budi counties, Jonglei: Akobo, Duk, Pibor, and Uror counties, Western Bahr-el Ghazal: Wau and Jur River, Unity: Panyijar, Leer, and Mayendit, and Upper Nile: Ulang and Baliet counties. Overall, SIMA's progress and achievements demonstrate its commitment to promoting the sustainability of independent media in South Sudan and improving access to credible information for South Sudanese citizens. The program's focus on collaboration, adaptation, and sustainability has enabled it to make significant strides in achieving its goals and objectives. The program's implementation challenges include addressing the needs of women-headed households, who represent 38% of participants, and ensuring the sustainability of radio operations in the long term. However, SIMA's progress and achievements demonstrate its ability to adapt to these challenges and continue to make significant strides in promoting the sustainability of independent media in South Sudan. In terms of stakeholder participation and involvement, SIMA has engaged with a range of stakeholders, including local communities, media organizations, and government agencies. The program has also demonstrated its ability to collaborate with technical and local partners in implementing its activities.