Maize growing at Igele Farms in Ifwotu Payam, Torit County, Eastern Equatoria – April 29, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Igele Farms)

South Sudan’s Agriculture experts state that climate change, lack of inputs, and limited extension services are challenges facing agri-food systems in South Sudan.

Speaking in Juba on Wednesday following the 31st Africa Agricultural Conference in Nouakchott, Mauritania, Undersecretary Michael Roben Kenyi said South Sudan must transform its agri-food systems to withstand pressure.

Kenyi identified floods and droughts as threats that disrupt farming. Other challenges include shortages of seeds and tools, lack of farmer training and extension services, and post-harvest losses during processing and marketing.

Kenyi stated that research and innovation are requirements for progress, noting that investment in agricultural research is a factor in national development. He called for coordination among stakeholders and policy implementation to ensure sustainability.

“Challenges that face the agri-food systems are related to climate change, including floods and drought,” Kenyi stated. “The system faces inadequate supplies of inputs in terms of quantity, quality, and timeliness. Other constraints include post-harvest losses and issues related to processing and marketing.”

Director General for Planning and Projects, Augustino Atillio, stated that 300 million people across Africa face hunger. He noted that South Sudan began reforming its food system in 2021 to connect stages from production to consumption.

Atillio identified climate change, conflict, and economic instability as obstacles to these reforms. He acknowledged that while policies for seeds, mechanization, livestock, and fisheries exist, funding levels affect progress.

“The magnitude and impact of climate change are increasing,” Atillio stated. “We are tasked to transform our food system and make it resilient. Conflict and economic instability are also issues to be addressed.”

Officials stated that partnerships with bodies such as IGAD and international organizations are methods to secure resources for food system transformation.