(JUBA）– The United Nations Development Programme in South Sudan has handed over information and communications technology and filming equipment to the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
The support was provided through the Youth Enterprise Development and Capacity Building Project, funded by the African Development Bank Group.
The project, known as YEDCB, is implemented by UNDP and aims to boost employability and job creation for South Sudanese youth aged 18 to 35 .
It works by strengthening private sector capacity, building entrepreneurial skills and creating a more supportive business environment.
The equipment handed over will strengthen the ministry’s capacity to deliver services, support private sector growth and improve documentation.
Project has reached thousands of young people
According to the African Development Bank, the YEDCB project has disbursed 4.54 billion South Sudanese pounds, about $2.61 million, across states in South Sudan .
A total of 1,247 youth and women-led micro and small enterprises have accessed interest-free loans through the project .
One beneficiary, Cecelia Anei, 28, received an interest-free loan of 3.5 million South Sudanese pounds, about $3,317, after conflict forced her from her home in Malakal in 2023 .
She used the funds to revive her vegetable selling business in 2024. She now employs two workers and has repaid 38 per cent of the loan .
“The business has enabled me to accumulate savings which I am now using to rebuild a home for my family,” Anei said .
Another beneficiary, the Betty Events Women Group Village Savings and Credit Cooperative Society in Juba, received an interest-free loan of about 5 million South Sudanese pounds, about $5,102 .
The cooperative, which began in 2019 with 40 entrepreneurs, now employs 23 workers and sells honey, shea butter, natural oils and okra powder locally, regionally and internationally .
Government officials trained
In addition to the equipment handover, government officials from various ministries received training in basic ICT skills, project management, and leadership and management.
The training is aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and improving public service delivery.
Mohamed Abchir, UNDP’s South Sudan Resident Representative, said the project is creating pathways to opportunity by strengthening institutions through training and investing in ICT equipment .
He said it also fosters private sector engagement by enabling business linkages and market access, connecting youth-owned enterprises with buyers and supply chains .
Monica Agum Daniel Awet Akot, Undersecretary of Youth and Sports, said the partnership with the Bank reflects a commitment to empowering youth and women .
She said it encourages policies and initiatives that foster innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development.
Themba Bhebhe, outgoing African Development Bank Country Manager for South Sudan, said the YEDCB project aligns with the Jobs for Youth initiative .
He said it equips South Sudan’s youth with the skills, finance and assistance to build sustainable businesses and create employment.
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