Agricultural Census Launched to Boost Food Security

(JUBA) – The Director General of the National Bureau of Statistics, Dr August Mayai, has formally opened the National Agriculture Census.

During the event, Dr Mayai explained that as South Sudan works towards lasting peace and wealth, the improvement of the farming sector remains essential.

He stated that a modern agricultural system would help the country withstand challenges, lower poverty levels, ensure there is enough food for everyone, and create an economy that can support itself.

The representative for the Food and Agriculture Organisation, Nicholas Kerandi, also spoke at the launch. He noted that this census is much more than just a collection of numbers.

He described the project as the base for a reliable agricultural information system. This system will provide a clear picture of who is producing food across the country and the specific ways in which farming is being done.

The Food and Agriculture Organisation used the event to promise its ongoing support to the Government of South Sudan.

The organisation plans to focus on improving the quality of agricultural data and information systems. This partnership aims to help the government make plans based on solid evidence and encourage development that lasts.

While no specific budget was detailed for the census today, current estimates for national statistical projects of this scale are significant.