The German development agency GIZ has begun distributing seeds and basic farming tools to 1,000 smallholder farmers in Yei River and Magwi counties to support the first planting season of 2026.
The initiative, launched March 30 in several bomas including Omeo, Gimunu, Pakula and Pajok, aims to boost agricultural productivity and improve food security in the region.
Farmers received a range of inputs, including maize, green grams, soybeans and vegetable seeds, as well as tools such as hoes, rakes, watering cans, wheelbarrows, axes and slashers.
The program is part of ongoing agricultural support funded by German Development Cooperation and implemented by GIZ South Sudan since 2021.
Beneficiaries said the assistance comes at a critical time ahead of the planting season and expressed hope for improved harvests.
GIZ said access to proper tools enables timely land preparation, planting and harvesting, while also reducing post-harvest losses and labor demands, ultimately improving yields and incomes.
The distribution exercise is expected to continue until mid-April.
In addition to providing inputs, the project will offer extension services through community-based workers and interactive agricultural radio programs, allowing farmers to seek advice and share experiences with experts.
The initiative is part of the Improving Livelihoods and Food Security (ILiPS) project, implemented on behalf of Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.
The project supports returnees, internally displaced people and host communities by strengthening agricultural production, expanding training opportunities and promoting psychosocial support services.