Sorghum on sale in Rumbek market. (Photo: Yang Ater).

The Abyei Special Administrative Area has expanded the distribution of subsidised maize to Alal and Mijak counties as part of efforts to cushion residents from rising food prices.

Authorities said maize is being sold at 12,000 South Sudanese Pounds per cylindrical tin container with a capacity of 4 kilograms, below the current market price of between 20,000 and 25,000 South Sudanese Pounds, to help ease the cost of living.

In Alal County, Commissioner Nyang Doldol Nyang said the government supplied 150 bags of maize, which were distributed through three centres to ensure more households benefit from the programme.

He noted that humanitarian agencies have limited capacity to meet growing needs.

In Mijak County, Commissioner Deng Manykuir said the initiative is intended to reduce the financial burden on residents, many of whom travel to Abyei town to buy maize at higher prices.

He warned against fraud in the distribution process, saying anyone found manipulating the subsidised food programme would face legal action.

The initiative comes as Abyei continues to face rising food prices driven by inflation, high transport costs and limited supply from major markets, with maize prices nearly doubling in some areas.