(YEI COUNTY) – Fifty two farmers groups in Yei River County have received fruit seedlings including papaya, pineapple, coffee and banana, a move aimed at improving nutrition, raising incomes and promoting climate smart agriculture across the region.
The seedlings were provided by AVSI South Sudan and will be planted in demonstration plots. AVSI said this will allow farmers to learn proper planting methods, farm management and sustainable fruit production at first hand.
The project is funded by the European Union in South Sudan, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Netherlands Embassy in South Sudan.
AVSI officials said the initiative marks an important step towards stronger household nutrition and better incomes for farming families. It is also designed to support climate smart agriculture within local communities.
The effort comes as South Sudan marked International Day of Cooperatives on 4 July 2026, with farming cooperatives in Eastern Equatoria and Lakes States showing strong results despite difficult conditions.
Through the RURALSS project, AVSI has empowered 21 cooperative societies and farmer clusters with skills in leadership, financial literacy, food safety, entrepreneurship, good agricultural practices, gender inclusion and climate smart agriculture.
These trainings have helped farmers improve crop management, reduce post harvest losses, use pesticides safely and meet the quality standards required for export markets.
The cooperatives remained resilient despite facing drought, heavy rainfall and volatile market conditions. Their commitment to quality production and sustainable farming practices has enabled them to produce more than 329,850 kilograms of harvest.
The Netherlands Embassy in South Sudan supported the cooperative initiative.
AVSI said in a press release the results show how investments in farmer capacity, youth employment, sustainable agriculture and market access can transform rural livelihoods while building resilient and competitive agricultural enterprises.
Meanwhile, on 1 July 2026 in Bargel, Cueibet County, AVSI began collaborating with the Ireneo Dud Vocational Training Centre to give students practical farming experience. AVSI said students acquire farming skills through planting vegetables and help produce fresh, nutritious food at school, with any surplus sold to generate income for the school.
With support from CEI, the Italian Episcopal Conference, AVSI supports 164 students at the centre. The programme delivers holistic education to children and youth, preparing them for meaningful employment.
Managed in partnership with the Catholic Diocese of Rumbek, the institution offers a range of practical courses, including building and construction, agriculture, tailoring, catering and basic academics.