By Deng Machol
JUBA, South Sudan – South Sudan’s Economic Cluster has approved a proposed budget of 11.335 trillion South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) for the 2026/2027 fiscal year, underscoring the government’s determination to strengthen economic resilience, boost food security and advance sustainable peace through strategic investments in key productive sectors.
The budget framework was endorsed during an ordinary meeting of the Economic Cluster held Wednesday at the headquarters of the Bank of South Sudan in Juba. The meeting was chaired by Vice President and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, James Wani Igga.
The approval followed a presentation by the Minister of Finance and Planning, Kuol Daniel Ayulo, who outlined the proposed resource envelope for the upcoming fiscal year under the theme, “Building Resilience and Prosperous Sustainable Peace.”
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Economic Cluster spokesperson and Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Lily Albino Akol, said the proposed budget will now be submitted to the Council of Ministers before being forwarded to the Revitalized Transitional National Legislative Assembly for debate and approval.
According to Akol, agriculture has emerged as one of the government’s principal priorities in the new fiscal framework, reflecting growing recognition of the sector’s central role in reducing food insecurity, creating jobs and supporting rural livelihoods.
The proposed budget provides for increased investment in agricultural production and food systems, with authorities seeking to reduce dependence on imports while improving domestic food availability across the country.
Beyond agriculture, the budget also prioritizes the livestock sector, a cornerstone of South Sudan’s economy and one of the country’s most valuable assets. Officials believe targeted support for livestock production and value chains could help expand exports, strengthen household incomes and generate much-needed government revenue.
The endorsement of the budget marks a significant milestone in South Sudan’s annual budget process and signals the government’s intention to align public expenditure with broader economic transformation goals.
As the country continues to navigate economic challenges while pursuing stability and development, policymakers are increasingly looking to productive sectors such as agriculture and livestock as drivers of diversification, resilience and long-term prosperity.
If approved by lawmakers, the 2026/2027 budget is expected to serve as a key policy instrument in advancing South Sudan’s vision of sustainable growth, improved food security and lasting peace.
