Ministry to Establish 3,000 Hectares of Cooperative Farms in Central Equatoria State

(JUBA) – The Central Equatoria State Ministry of Cooperatives and Rural Development has announced plans to establish over 3,000 hectares of cooperative farmland across the six counties and Wonduruba Administrative Payam.

According to the ministry, the initiative aims to strengthen cooperative development, boost food production, and reduce food insecurity across the state.

This comes as farmers in Kajo-Keji County on Tuesday called on the ministry to take practical steps to increase agricultural productivity.

In a statement extended to Access Radio Newsroom, the State Minister of Cooperatives and Rural Development, Emmanuel Khamis Richard, said the government has already developed actionable plans to support cooperative farming.

He revealed that 300 hectares of farmland will be directly owned and managed by the ministry to demonstrate government commitment and leadership in agricultural development.

Khamis added that each of the six counties, including Wonduruba Administrative Payam, will be allocated 100 hectares to be managed by county departments of cooperatives and rural development.

He noted that the government-owned farms will serve as centers for farmer training, seed production, and increased food output, while also contributing to poverty reduction at the grassroots level.

The minister further disclosed that an additional 2,000 hectares will be provided under the first phase of state intervention to support registered cooperative groups and strengthen their capacity.

He explained that the ministry will prepare a consolidated budget to be presented to the Council of Ministers, and upon approval, eligible cooperative groups will be identified, verified, and supported in a transparent manner.

Khamis also directed county officials to work closely with agricultural departments and submit verified data within seven days to support effective planning for the first farming season.

He urged registered cooperative societies to submit their strategic action plans for the 2026 agricultural seasons, outlining their capacity, challenges, and areas requiring support.

The minister also called on unregistered cooperative groups to formally register with the ministry in order to benefit from government and partner support.

Meanwhile, the ministry has issued a circular to county commissioners and the coordinator of Wonduruba Administrative Payam, directing them to develop and submit consolidated plans to ensure timely implementation of the initiative. The Minister  strongly urges all development partners to closely collaborate with the Ministry’s established structures to ensure the delivery of effective, well-coordinated, and timely support to cooperative societies, farmer groups, and other agricultural stakeholders.