SOUTH SUDAN: High-Level Intergenerational Forum Advocates for Bold Actions To Empower Young Women In Agriculture

By Deborah Akur Chol, South Sudan

Government leaders, UN agencies, and development partners have called for increased investment in the engagement of young women in agriculture, emphasising its significance for food security, economic development, and sustainable peace.

The forum, hosted at the Pyramid Continental Hotel under the theme “Empowering Young Women in Agriculture and Agribusiness: A Catalyst for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment,” brought together a diverse group, including ministers, diplomats, farmers, youth entrepreneurs, and civil society representatives, to discuss concrete strategies to enhance women’s roles in agricultural value chains.

In her opening remarks, Delphine Serumaga, UN Women Country Representative, underscored the pivotal role women play in farming. “When women gain equal access to productive resources, agricultural yields can increase by as much as 30 per cent,” she stated, emphasising the positive ripple effects for families and the broader economy.

Hon. Mary Nawai, Minister of Youth and Sports, asserted that empowerment initiatives must translate into tangible outcomes. “Young women involved in farming must see and experience the benefits in their everyday lives,” she said.

Panellists from various sectors, including government, development banks, UN agencies, and the private sector, engaged in discussions about the challenges related to land access, financing, technology, and market opportunities for women-led agribusiness ventures.

Hon. Hussein Abdelbagi, Minister of Agriculture, remarked, “Women’s leadership in agriculture is fundamental to achieving peace, prosperity, and resilience.” In a similar vein, Hon. Sarah Cleto, National Minister of Health and Acting Minister of Gender, highlighted the importance of data and accountability, stating, “What