May 15, 2024

Inclusive Agribusiness Club: Catalysing Inclusive Growth in South Sudan’s Agricultural Sector

Animal Production Related

Staple Crops

Soy and Oil Seeds

Fresh Produce

South Sudan is experiencing new waves of transformation through the Inclusive Agribusiness Club. Spearheaded by 2SCALE, the IAC serves as a dynamic platform connecting businesses, enhancing supply networks, and driving economic growth. By leveraging 2SCALE’s methodologies, resources, and insights, the IAC fosters robust partnerships with universities and specialized learning centers, promoting a vibrant exchange of knowledge and nurturing a community committed to inclusivity in agribusiness.

On October 19, 2023, 2SCALE inaugurated the first Inclusive Agribusiness Club in South Sudan in collaboration with the prestigious Magwi College of Agribusiness and Management Science (MCAMS). This partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to bridge the knowledge gap in the agribusiness sector. The IAC is set to achieve this by hosting regular stakeholder meetings, disseminating cross-learning resources, and creating a collaborative environment for sharing experiences and spearheading projects. These efforts align seamlessly with 2SCALE’s mission to enhance agricultural value chains and promote inclusive business models.

Stakeholder Engagement: A Mosaic of Contributions

The IAC boasts a rich tapestry of stakeholders, including smallholder farmers, educational institutions like MCAMS and the University of Juba, International NGOs (World Vision, FAO, WFP, GIZ etc.), the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Chamber of Commerce, South Sudan National Bureau of Standards, South Sudan Seed Traders Association, and private sector entities such as finance institutions and agro-input dealers. Each member of this diverse group plays a crucial role, from boosting food security to empowering smallholder farmers and advocating for sustainable agricultural practices.

The launch event was a resounding success, featuring insightful presentations from the University of Juba on academia’s role in fostering an inclusive agribusiness network and engaging discussions led by MCAMS on networking among key agribusiness players. The event created a vibrant platform that promoted inclusive growth and policy advocacy.

This Inclusive Agribusiness Club should create opportunities, including jobs and enhanced economic transformation through continuous value-added programs.

remarked Isaac Woja, Seed Trade Association representative, at the launch.

The IAC’s launch catalysed significant developments in South Sudan’s agribusiness sector. Post-launch, the IAC successfully mapped regional agribusiness stakeholders and established a communication network managed by MCAMS, enhancing collaboration and knowledge sharing. This initiative led to the development of new partnerships and collaborative projects focused on improving agricultural practices and increasing market access for smallholder farmers.

The club provided a space for networking, mentorship, and partnership. Many found value in the diverse perspectives and experiences brought by members from different backgrounds, which enriched their understanding of the agribusiness sector

Noted Alana Sebit, the Country Team Leader, 2SCALE South Sudan.

Fuelling the Momentum: Inclusive Financing Innovation

Building on its initial success, the IAC recently hosted the Inclusive Agribusiness Innovation Exhibition on April 16, 2024. This event spotlighted Inclusive Financing for Agribusiness Innovation in South Sudan, attracting key agricultural players and showcasing how accessible and inclusive financial services can empower smallholder farmers and agribusiness SMEs to adopt modern technologies and enhance productivity.

Inclusive financing is a crucial driver for a sustainable food system in South Sudan. It prioritizes women and youth, who are often marginalized in value chain financing due to a lack of collateral and guarantees for loans from financial service providers,

explained Mary Benjamin Loki, the Director General, Strategic Food Reserve in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

The event featured engaging panel discussions that highlighted innovative financing solutions provided by platforms like mGURUSH, a mobile money service, and the Rural-Urban Finance Initiative, which facilitates access to finance in remote areas. Agripreneurs also showcased their innovative products, services, technologies, and initiatives related to inclusive agribusiness.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Horizons

The IAC’s journey has not been without challenges. Initial hurdles included managing high financial expectations and overcoming logistical difficulties in assembling a diverse group of stakeholders. These challenges were addressed through transparent communication and the strategic signing of Memoranda of Understanding, which clarified financial roles and responsibilities. Another obstacle was the initial perception of the IAC as merely a social club rather than a professional network. This was tackled through strategic rebranding and continuous stakeholder engagement.

The IAC plans to expand its membership and strengthen partnerships to scale initiatives and enhance policy advocacy in South Sudan. By bringing together diverse stakeholders with a shared interest in promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development, the club can amplify voices, influence decision-makers at various levels of government and international organizations to create an enabling environment for agribusiness growth. With comprehensive strategies and unwavering stakeholder support, the IAC is poised to continue playing a pivotal role in promoting sustainable practices and facilitating market access. The club is set to contribute significantly to the growth and development of inclusive agriculture in South Sudan.

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