Honorary Consul of South Sudan to Brazil, Maria Juan Lotua | Photo: Courtesy of Maria Juan Lotua.

The Honorary Consul of Brazil to South Sudan, Maria Juan Lotua, announced on Thursday that a second batch of 25 South Sudanese youth is set to depart for specialized agricultural training in Brazil.

In a statement released to Eye Radio on April 2, 2026, the Honorary Consul confirmed that this latest group will receive hands-on training specifically focused on the sorghum and foliage production chain.

According to Maria Juan Lotua, this deployment follows the successful completion of the program’s first phase, which focused on the bovine (cattle) production chain.

The initial batch, consisting of 29 participants—including 13 women—traveled to Brazil on March 5 and returned on March 23, 2024.

She stated that the second batch maintains a focus on inclusivity, with eight women among the 25 participants selected for the upcoming session.

Maria added that the Youth Technical Training Program (YTTP) is designed to equip youth with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in modern farming techniques.

She noted that the ultimate goal is to revitalize South Sudan’s agricultural sector and drive long-term economic growth through high-yield, sustainable practices.

To ensure the skills learned abroad are put to use at home, Maria explained that returnees receive continuous follow-up support. This includes coordination between the Brazil Africa Institute (IBRAF) and relevant government line ministries to create knowledge-sharing opportunities.

According to the Honorary Consul, the impact of the program has already reached the highest levels of government. Recently, the first batch of graduates was hosted by the Vice President for the Gender and Youth Cluster, Rebecca Nyandeng De Mabior.

Maria said that during the engagement, the Vice President provided the youth with a tour of her farm and offered strategic guidance on implementing best practices within their respective communities.

In closing, Maria stated that this high-level mentorship is expected to help the trainees transition from students into leaders within South Sudan’s burgeoning agricultural industry.