South Sudan-$33 Million Climate Resilience Project Launched

By Deng Machol

JUBA, South Sudan - South Sudan has launched a five-year watershed approach to climate resilience in agro-pastoral landscapes project that aims to benefit 75,000 people and restore over 15,000 hectares in the country. 

The Ministry of Environment and partners launched a $33 million climate resilience project to empower agro-pastoral communities in Northern Bahr El Ghazal State. It is funded by the Global Environment Facility through UNDP and implemented by World Vision South Sudan in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. The project shall be implemented in the Aweil Centre and Aweil East counties of Northern Bahr El Ghazal.

The project is a significant step towards tackling severe heat waves, floods, and droughts in the world's youngest nation. In March, the schools were closed due to extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 40 to 45 degrees Celsius.

Josephine Napwon, Minister of Environment said the project meets its outcome.
“The project will introduce smart agriculture strategies to the people to increase their agricultural production and enhance their livelihoods," said Napwon.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Oyoti Adigo said the project will strengthen the resilience of pastoralists to reduce the impact of climate change.
“The project is going to strengthen the resilience of pastoralists and agro-pastoralists production system to achieve climate change components," said Oyoti.
He added that the project will support agribusiness development for women and youth components.

Meanwhile, the deputy representative of UNDP, Titus Osundina said it will build long-term climate resilience among the pastoral communities using a participatory watershed-based approach.Titus added that the majority of the population in South Sudan depends on climate-sensitive natural resources for their livelihoods.
“As we embark on this journey together, let us reaffirm our commitment to collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity,” Mr. Titus said, adding that climate resilience is a shared responsibility and a collective journey. 

"It is about empowering individuals and communities with the knowledge tools and resources, they need to adapt and thrive," said Titus. The World Vision Country Director, Dr.Mesfin Loha said no single agency or ministry can handle it alone.

"Our collective efforts will make a significant difference, and we are optimistic about the positive outcomes we will achieve," said Dr. Mesfin, adding that "we recognize that responding to climate change - including reducing, adapting to, and mitigating its impact and risks - as well as restoring the ecosystem, requires the collective efforts of various stakeholders.