South Sudan Awards $29.88 Million FAO Contract Under Resilient Livestock Sector Project

South Sudan has awarded a major development contract worth USD 29.88 million under the South Sudan Resilient Livestock Sector Project (RLSP), a flagship initiative designed to strengthen livestock production, improve food security, and enhance resilience among pastoralist communities. Funded by the World Bank, the contract has been awarded to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

The contract was signed on 22 May 2026 and represents one of the largest recent investments in South Sudan’s agriculture and livestock sector, highlighting the country's commitment to improving rural livelihoods and economic resilience.

Contract Details and Scope

The awarded tender (Reference No. SS-MLF-540222-NC-DIR, TOT Ref No. 26386682) carries a total contract value of USD 29,876,089 and is being implemented under Project ID P500553.

The procurement was conducted through the Direct Selection method, reflecting FAO’s specialized expertise and extensive operational experience in agricultural development, livestock management, and food security programs.

Project Objectives

The South Sudan Resilient Livestock Sector Project is expected to support:

• Livestock sector modernization and development

• Animal health and veterinary service improvements

• Livestock disease prevention and control

• Pastoralist livelihood enhancement

• Climate resilience and sustainable livestock practices

• Capacity building for livestock producers

• Food security and nutrition improvement

• Strengthening livestock value chains and market access

The project is designed to address long-standing challenges affecting South Sudan’s livestock sector, which remains a critical source of income and food for millions of households.

Entities Involved

The project is financed by the World Bank in partnership with South Sudan’s livestock and agricultural institutions responsible for rural development and food security.

The awarded organization, FAO, is a globally recognized leader in agricultural development, food systems, livestock management, and rural resilience programs. FAO has extensive experience implementing large-scale agricultural and humanitarian projects throughout Africa, including in fragile and conflict-affected regions.

Strategic Importance for South Sudan

Livestock is one of South Sudan’s most important economic assets and plays a vital role in supporting livelihoods, employment, nutrition, and rural development.

The project aims to:

• Increase livestock productivity

• Strengthen resilience against climate and economic shocks

• Improve animal health services

• Enhance food security in vulnerable communities

• Support sustainable natural resource management

• Promote inclusive rural economic growth

The initiative aligns with South Sudan’s broader development goals of reducing poverty, strengthening agricultural productivity, and building resilience in rural communities.

Economic and Social Impact

The USD 29.88 million investment is expected to generate significant benefits across the livestock sector.

Expected Outcomes

• Improved livestock health and productivity

• Increased incomes for livestock-dependent households

• Better access to veterinary and extension services

• Enhanced food security and nutrition outcomes

• Stronger resilience to drought, disease outbreaks, and climate-related risks

• Expanded economic opportunities in rural areas

By supporting one of the country’s most important economic sectors, the project is expected to contribute to long-term rural stability and development.

Technical and Development Significance

Modern livestock development programs typically incorporate:

• Veterinary infrastructure strengthening

• Disease surveillance systems

• Livestock vaccination campaigns

• Pasture and rangeland management

• Farmer and pastoralist training

• Livestock market development

• Climate-smart livestock production practices

FAO’s technical expertise is expected to help ensure effective implementation and sustainable project outcomes.

Conclusion

The award of the USD 29.88 million contract to FAO marks a significant milestone for the South Sudan Resilient Livestock Sector Project. By investing in livestock productivity, animal health, and rural resilience, the initiative will help strengthen livelihoods, improve food security, and support sustainable economic development across South Sudan.

As the country continues rebuilding its agricultural economy, strategic investments in livestock development are expected to play a central role in fostering resilience, reducing poverty, and creating opportunities for rural communities.

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