SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE, FOOD SECURITY, AND LIVELIHOODS

Over seven million people—nearly 60% of South Sudan’s population—face crisis-level food insecurity (IPC Phase 3+), with pockets of catastrophic conditions. Rural smallholders, who form the backbone of the nation, struggle with low productivity, lack of inputs, post-harvest losses, and limited market access. Youth unemployment exceeds 70%, driving migration, recruitment into armed groups, and social instability. At the same time, agriculture remains the most viable pathway to self-reliance. YACRRD promotes climate-smart agriculture, farmer field schools, and sustainable livelihood programs that equip young women and men with practical skills, start-up capital, and market linkages. By integrating Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), green enterprise development, and vocational training, we transform subsistence farmers into resilient entrepreneurs, reducing hunger and creating dignified economic opportunities in rural South Sudan.