EU envoy urges South Sudan to invest in agriculture for peace, food security

JUBA – The European Union (EU) called on South Sudan to prioritize agricultural development as a cornerstone for peace and economic stability, marking the conclusion of an EU-funded project and unveiling new support initiatives.

Speaking at a seminar on Access to Finance, Food Security and Quality in Juba on Thursday, Lothar Jaschke, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation, emphasized the sector’s crucial role in the nation’s future.

“Agriculture is key for food security and for employment,” Jaschke said, highlighting that over 80% of South Sudan’s population relies on it for their livelihood.

“Developing a strong and sustainable fruits and vegetables value chain is key to job creation and economic diversification,” he added.

The EU official celebrated the conclusion of the “Jobs Creation and Trade Development” project, funded by the EU Trust Fund for Africa, which focused on Western and Central Equatoria.

He stressed the project’s lasting impact through skills development, job creation and strengthened trade networks.

“Beyond economic growth, investing in agriculture is about resilience; resilience to climate change, resilience to market shocks, and resilience in ensuring that communities have access to nutritious food,” Jaschke added.

The EU announced further support through two new initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to South Sudan’s agricultural sector.

The International Trade Centre will play a key role in market linkages within the broader Green and Resilient Economy program, co-funded by the EU and implemented with the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Food Programme.

“The underlying premise is that investing in skills, market access, and value chains, with a focus on youth and women, empowers farmers and entrepreneurs and contributes to food security and economic growth. And to peace!” Jaschke said.

He drew parallels between the EU’s own origins and South Sudan’s current challenges, emphasizing the connection between economic cooperation and peace.

“Economic development is a key component of building peace,” he said.

Jaschke called for a strong private sector and foreign investment to support skill-training, stimulate domestic demand and create jobs.

“Today is not the end, but a new beginning,” he said, vowing continued EU support for a prosperous and peaceful South Sudan.

South Sudan has struggled with prolonged conflict and economic instability. The nation’s economy is heavily dependent on oil, making it vulnerable to price fluctuations.

Despite a peace agreement, sporadic violence continues to disrupt livelihoods and hinder development across rural South Sudan, forcing citizens to move to the capital.

The agricultural sector, vital for food security, has been severely impacted by conflict and climate change.

The EU has been a key partner in South Sudan’s development, providing humanitarian aid and supporting initiatives to promote stability and economic growth.