SNV resumes operations in South Sudan

With enthusiasm and a clear vision, SNV proudly announces its return to South Sudan, reigniting 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 in South Sudan.

After a six-year hiatus due to the operational challenges of the 2013 and 2016 crises, SNV is poised to make a strong comeback, fortified by its global expertise in the Humanitarian-Development Nexus and a robust track record of impactful programming in similar contexts. 

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 next decade, SNV became a cornerstone of South Sudan’s development landscape, contributing to foundational growth in governance, agriculture, livelihoods, community development, and infrastructure. 

Our programmes implemented from 2005 to 2016 left a lasting legacy: 

• South Sudan Livelihoods Development (SSLDP)

This flagship initiative ran between 2011-2016 and transformed the CDDP 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), laid the groundwork for long-term food security in the Magwi area of Eastern Equatoria State. 

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

Funded by the UK Government’s DFID Results Challenge Fund, this project drove improvements in sanitation and hygiene, particularly in Northern Bahr El Gazal, impacting thousands of lives. 

• Producing for Urban Markets – Fisheries Value Chain 

With EU support, this initiative empowered fisherfolk and market vendors in Terekeka and Juba, particularly women, by strengthening the fisheries value chain and enhancing economic opportunities. 

• 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. SNV’s work in promoting Gum Arabic in South Sudan since 2008 has demonstrated how a strategic, inclusive, and sustainable approach can transform a natural resource into a driver of economic growth and environmental conservation. 

Through these and other initiatives, SNV built trust, empowered communities, and established a reputation for delivering results in collaboration with government ministries, local organisations, and the private sector. 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 untapped water, agriculture, and energy potential. 

SNV’s approach in South Sudan is underpinned by: 

• Deep market insights.

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

• 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. 

• A humanitarian-to-development transition.

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

SNV’s ambitions for South Sudan go beyond delivering projects; they focus on fostering systemic change. We envision partnerships that drive innovation, improve governance, and create resilient systems capable of withstanding future shocks. 

Our return to South Sudan is not just a continuation of past efforts; it’s the beginning of a bold, new chapter. We are eager to collaborate with government leaders, development partners, private sector actors, and local communities to build a thriving South Sudan. Together, let’s create a resilient and prosperous future for South Sudan.