Economic Cluster Clears SSP 72 Billion for Farming

(JUBA) – The Economic Cluster, meeting in its ordinary sitting on Wednesday January 21, 2026, approved a request for the release of 72 billion South Sudan Pounds to support a three month action plan by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and preparations for the current farming season.

The meeting was chaired by the Vice President and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, Professor James Wani Igga. Members discussed the funding request as part of wider efforts to strengthen food production and improve economic stability in South Sudan.

The proposal was presented by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Hussein Abdelbagi Akol. Following deliberations, the Cluster approved the request and resolved that it should be submitted to the Council of Ministers for final consideration and approval.

The approved amount of 72 billion South Sudan Pounds is equivalent to about 10.1 million United States Dollars, based on the current market rate of 7,100 South Sudan Pounds to one United States Dollar.

Officials said the funds are intended to support urgent activities ahead of and during the farming season, which is critical for food security and rural livelihoods across the country.

During the same meeting, the Ministerial Economic Cluster also received a briefing on the main areas of work of the National Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development.

The report was presented by the Minister, Michael Chanjiek Geay, and outlined ongoing priorities in land management, housing, and urban development, sectors that are closely linked to economic growth and social stability.

In a statement to the press after the meeting, the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Lily Albino Akol, said the Cluster also passed a report presented by the Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr Bak Barnaba Chol. The report focused on economic recovery, fiscal discipline, and macroeconomic stabilisation, which remain key concerns for South Sudan’s economy.

Deputy Minister Lily Akol added that the Cluster approved three agenda items during the sitting. She emphasised that the discussions reflected the government’s continued focus on agriculture, economic recovery and coordinated planning as South Sudan seeks to address ongoing economic challenges and support livelihoods across the country.