PHOTO CREDIT: WFP - WFP Challenge Rewards Local Ideas to Transform South Sudan’s Food Sector
(JUBA) – Eleven South Sudanese enterprises have been awarded a combined grant of 544,000 US dollars (about 2.5 billion South Sudanese Pounds) under the 2025 World Food Programme (WFP) IGNITE Food Systems Innovation Challenge. The initiative aims to support locally driven solutions that can transform South Sudan’s fragile food systems.
The challenge which is supported by the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) and the German Development Bank (KfW), is in its second edition following the inaugural programme in 2021.
Each winning venture received between 20,000 US dollars (92 million SSP) and 40,000 US dollars (184 million SSP), along with access to expert mentorship, business training and opportunities to build strategic partnerships.
Dr John Ogoto Kanisio, Undersecretary for Agriculture at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, said sustainable food systems are vital for the country’s food security, climate resilience and economic independence.
He stressed that investing in young and innovative entrepreneurs creates jobs, unlocks rural opportunities, and strengthens agribusiness growth that could position South Sudan competitively in regional and global markets.
Among this year’s top winners are Africa Cornerstone General Trading and Dream Farm Agribusiness Cooperative, both women led companies. Africa Cornerstone is focusing on biodegradable and recyclable packaging solutions to reduce food waste and lower carbon emissions. Dream Farm is recycling poultry manure into organic fertiliser, developing sustainable livestock feed, and promoting water-saving farming techniques.
German Head of Cooperation, Dr Björn Niere, said the challenge shows the power of homegrown solutions. He noted that sustainable food systems require innovation, partnerships and an enabling environment where ideas can flourish. Germany, he added, remains committed to working with WFP, DANIDA and local partners to strengthen these initiatives.
Adham Effendi, WFP’s Acting Country Director in South Sudan, revealed that many young entrepreneurs face serious challenges accessing finance and technical support. He said the grants, made possible through contributions from DANIDA and KfW, are helping to unlock local talent and address food security challenges with practical, locally owned solutions.
The 11 winners were selected from more than 200 entries across the country. They represent a wide range of sectors, including agri-technology, post-harvest management, livestock production and food distribution.
Full list of winning ventures
| Venture | Area of Focus |
|---|---|
| Africa Cornerstone General Trading | Eco-friendly packaging |
| Dream Farm Agribusiness Cooperative | Organic fertiliser, livestock feed, water efficiency |
| AgriSmart Farm & Urban Gardens | Urban farming and agri-tech |
| Golden Farm South Sudan Ltd | Crop production |
| Hope and Care for Development | Community based farming |
| Long Puou Cooperative Society | Cooperative agriculture |
| Lulu Bakes | Local food processing |
| Mading Chan Young Network Economic Development | Youth led agribusiness |
| Magwi College of Agribusiness & Management Science | Agricultural training and innovation |
| National Star Investment Co. Ltd | Food distribution |
| Tropical Wet Organics Ltd | Organic farming |
Nanko Madu, Director of Programmes at AfriLabs, said the competition is not only about recognising excellence but also about creating a turning point for homegrown innovation.
He added that by supporting local entrepreneurs, South Sudan can prove that real transformation comes from within, while building a more food secure and climate resilient future.
The IGNITE Innovation Hub, run by the WFP, organises the challenge in partnership with AfriLabs and Seed Grow South Sudan, with close collaboration from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
Past winners include Hagana Agro Processing Company, which has since grown into a recognised national brand competing successfully in regional markets.
The WFP stated that the initiative is part of its commitment to move beyond emergency assistance by helping South Sudan build pathways to long term stability and prosperity.
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