New milk facility opens in Rumbek

RUMBEK – A new milk handling facility has been opened in Rumbek, Lakes State, with the support of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the efforts of AVSI Foundation.

The facility, built for the Akon Buoi Cooperative Society Group, aims to improve milk handling and processing, benefiting local farmers and the community.

Rumbek Municipal Mayor Akol Paul Manyang welcomed the new facility, expressing gratitude for the support from the Kingdom of the Netherlands and AVSI.

He highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting small businesses and creating a conducive environment for economic growth.

“We are happy for the support you have given to our local communities,” Manyang said. “This milk building was a land given to our mother to run out their businesses, as a government of Lakes State, we provided this land to our dear communities such that they can carry out their day-to-day businesses.”

Vuren Arend Van, First Secretary of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, emphasized the importance of community collaboration and overcoming challenges. He noted that the new facility symbolizes collective progress and addresses the specific needs of local farmers.

“I have understood that they have to work long distances under the hot sun to come and sales their milk and now this is their point to sale their quality of milk out scorching sun and for their milk to be tested so that it can be safer for consumption,” Van said.

Andrea Bianchessi, Regional Manager of AVSI Foundation, expressed his satisfaction with the project and highlighted the organization’s commitment to empowering local communities.

AVSI is supporting thousands of small farmers in the region, providing training, infrastructure, and market access.

South Sudan’s Agriculture Minister Poth Majak Daljang praised the government’s support for the project and expressed gratitude to AVSI for their efforts.

He acknowledged the need for additional infrastructure, such as water supply and sanitation facilities, to ensure the sustainability of the facility.

Local milk seller Hellena Apen Mabil expressed her joy for the support from the Kingdom of the Netherlands and highlighted the need for improved transportation and water access to further enhance their business.