JUBA — Mercy Corps, an international humanitarian organization, announced on Thursday the launch of a 4-million-euro project, which is equivalent to 4.5 million United States dollars, aimed at supporting the operations of civil society organizations in South Sudan.
The four-year European Union-funded project will support over 140 grassroots organizations, national NGOs, informal networks, and faith-based groups across all 10 states of Africa’s youngest nation.
The project dubbed “Supporting Civil Society Empowerment in South Sudan” (SUCCESS) is anticipated to run from January 2025 to December 2028.
It will provide tailored grants, technical assistance, and long-term capacity-building support.
It also aimed to enhance civic engagement, strengthen organizational governance, and increase advocacy capabilities.
The SUCCESS project—led by Mercy Corps in collaboration with the Institute for Promotion of Civil Society (IPCS) and EVE Organization for Women Development—is designed to overcome governance challenges and a restricted civic space.
Speaking during the launch of the project in Juba on Thursday, Timo Olkkonen, EU Ambassador to South Sudan, said the project symbolizes a significant investment in partnership, local ownership, and inclusive development.
“Civil society plays a vital role in promoting sustainable development and democratic governance,” Olkkonen said.
For her part, Saffea Senessie, Mercy Corps Country Director, said the project is tailored to help civil society actors overcome structural and financial barriers.
“This initiative is about building lasting partnerships that amplify local voices and empower communities,” Senessie said.
Meanwhile, Esther Ikere, undersecretary in the Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, said the scheme aligned with national efforts to implement the Women, Peace, and Security agenda.
“This aligns with the Peace and Governance pillar of the project. It also supports South Sudan’s ratification of key global frameworks like CEDAW to advance women’s rights,” Ikere said.
She encouraged CSOs and partners to collaborate closely and make use of UN support to strengthen civic engagement and gender equality.
Pia Phillip, undersecretary in the Ministry of Peacebuilding, emphasized the importance of ensuring the project reaches all regions of the country.
“The success of this initiative will depend on inclusive implementation and strong cooperation between civil society and government actors,” she said.
The SUCCESS project, Mercy Corps, is leading the STREAM program (Strengthening Resilience, Livelihoods, and Agricultural Markets) in Greater Mundri, Western Equatoria.
STREAM connects smallholder farmers with financial services, agricultural inputs, and market systems to build sustainable livelihoods.
