A three-day national agriculture conference began on Tuesday in South Sudan’s capital, bringing together government officials, development partners and private sector representatives to boost investment in the country’s struggling but vital farm sector.
Held under the theme “Investing in Agri-Food Systems for a Better Life in South Sudan,” the meeting aims to strengthen dialogue and accelerate growth and resilience in food systems.
Opening the event at a hotel in Juba, Vice President for the Economic Cluster James Wani Igga called for policy reforms to help farmers and agribusinesses adopt modern technologies.
“We must put in place effective and practical policies that encourage our farmers and agri-business actors to adopt modern technologies,” Igga said. “This is the only way we can enhance productivity and ensure food security.”
He said developing strong agri-food systems and improving food safety standards were critical to national health and economic stability.
Acting Agriculture and Food Security Minister Lily Albino Akol said women account for nearly 80% of the agricultural labour force but face barriers in accessing land, finance and inputs.
“If we are serious about transforming agriculture, we must invest deliberately in women farmers and remove the systemic obstacles limiting their potential,” she said.
Meshack Malo, deputy regional representative for Africa at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, said South Sudan imports nearly 60% of its food needs, warning that the trend is unsustainable.
He said the country has spent an estimated $800 million annually on food imports over the past five years, out of a total import bill of about $1.2 billion.
The conference is expected to conclude with recommendations aimed at boosting agricultural productivity, improving food systems and attracting sustainable investment.
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