17/01/2025

SNV resumes operations in South Sudan

SNV announces its return to South Sudan, reaffirming its mission to strengthen capacities and catalyse partnerships that transform the agri-food, energy, and water systems, enabling sustainable and more equitable lives for all.

magwi flour

We acknowledge the humanitarian situation in South Sudan, where an estimated 9 million people, including refugees in the country, were projected to experience critical needs in 2024. South Sudan remains impacted in varying degrees by fragility, economic stagnation, and challenges in governance.

With this in mind, and after a six-year hiatus due to operational challenges following the 2013 and 2016 crises, SNV hopes to bring its experience in the Humanitarian-Development Nexus and impactful programme implementation in challenging contexts, envisioning partnerships in the country that drive innovation, improve governance, and create resilient systems, capable of withstanding future shocks.  

This is not just a continuation of past efforts; it is the beginning of a new chapter. We look forward to renewed collaboration with government development partners, private sector actors, and local communities to contribute to a thriving South Sudan. 

SNV and South Sudan: A lookback

SNV first established its presence in South Sudan in 2005, during the hopeful period following the Signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the SPLA/M and the Khartoum-based SAF. Over the following decade, we worked to contribute to the development landscape, with the aim of supporting on strengthening governance, agriculture, livelihoods, community development, and infrastructure. 


Our programmes implemented from 2005 to 2016 included: 

  • South Sudan Livelihoods Development (SSLDP)

This initiative ran between 2011-2016, and worked to strengthen the Community Driven Development (CDD) approach in agricultural practices by promoting a shift from subsistence farming to market-oriented production. Implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and other stakeholders, SSLDP was financed by the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) and the Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Juba (EKN), with a view to achieving long-term food security in the Magwi area of Eastern Equatoria State. (Read more)

  • Sustainable Sanitation & Hygiene for All Results (SSH4A-RP) 

Funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Results Challenge Fund, this project worked towards improving systems in sanitation and hygiene, particularly in Northern Bahr El Gazal, where thousands live with limited access to clean sanitary facilities. (Read more) 

  • Producing for Urban Markets – Fisheries Value Chain 

With EU support, this initiative worked towards building stronger fisheries value chains and enhanced economic opportunities, empowering fisherfolk and market vendors in Terekeka and Juba, particularly women. (Read more) 

  • Development of Gum Arabic Value Chain

SNV has been a catalyst in developing the Gum Arabic sector in South Sudan, recognising its potential to contribute to livelihoods, export revenue, and sustainable land use.

Two men weighing a sack of cassava at a local market using a hanging scale

Two men weighing a sack of cassava at a local market using a hanging scale.

Back with renewed hope for systems transformation

SNV’s return marks a renewed commitment to advancing equitable and sustainable development.

In 2025, we will kick off operations in Torit, Yambio, and Juba under the PCAV GIZ/SNV EU-funded project, focusing on building climate-resilient value chains and fostering local capacity. This programme will be the cornerstone of our ambitious five-year strategy (2025-2030), which envisions expansion to Bor, Rumbek, Aweil, and other regions with the potential for improved water, agriculture, and energy systems.

SNV’s approach in South Sudan is underpinned by: 

  • Strong alliances

We aim to collaborate with various partners, including the Government of South Sudan at national and local levels, the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and other international and regional development actors. 

  • Deep market insights

With over a decade of on-the-ground experience, SNV hopes to build and capitalise on its understanding of South Sudan’s unique development context, including its challenges and opportunities. 

  • A humanitarian-to-development transition

Our programming looks to bridge the gap between immediate humanitarian relief and long-term development, ensuring communities are equipped for sustainable growth. 

A schoolgirl washing her hands using a pedal washing station after using the latrine.

A young girl washing her hands using a pedal washing station.

Discover more about our work

Visit our country page to explore our projects, read stories, and learn about our plans for a resilient future.