The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), successfully procured and distributed 750 female goats to vulnerable households in Yambio and Nzara counties in Western Equatoria State under its Food and Nutrition Security and Management of Natural Resources (FONA) project.
A press release issued to this publication on Tuesday said the distribution includes host communities and returnees who often face significant challenges in securing sustainable livelihoods and adequate nutrition. Small ruminants, such as goats and sheep, are central to food and nutrition security and livelihoods for a large share of South Sudan’s population.
“This intervention is part of GIZ’s broader commitment to improving food and nutrition security while strengthening resilience among smallholder farmers in South Sudan. By integrating small ruminants into farming systems, the project reduces over-reliance on crop production,” the statement reads in part. “Small livestock, particularly goats, play a critical role in rural economies. They provide a reliable source of protein through meat and milk, contribute to household income, and support sustainable farming through manure production.”
|The distributed goats were carefully selected to meet strict quality standards, ensuring they are healthy, productive, and suitable for breeding,” it added.
According to GIZ, providing small ruminants is a practical and sustainable way to support vulnerable households. Goats are resilient, easy to manage, and can quickly reproduce, enabling families to build assets and improve their nutrition over time.
“The intervention also includes training on improved livestock husbandry practices to address common challenges such as animal health, feeding, and management. This ensures that beneficiaries can maximize the benefits of the support and sustain their livestock assets,” GIZ said. “The procurement and delivery process was carried out in accordance with animal transportation and handling regulations, ensuring animal welfare throughout the process.”
“Through the FONA project, GIZ continues to support agricultural development by enhancing productivity, promoting sustainable natural resource management, and strengthening local capacities,” the statement added.
The distribution of goats marks an important step toward building resilient communities and improving the long-term food security situation in South Sudan, GIZ said.
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