South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Benjamin Takpiny
Eleven ventures in South Sudan have been awarded a total of USD 544,000 in this year’s WFP IGNITE Food Systems Innovation Challenge, providing them with the opportunity to contribute to the transformation of the country’s food system.
Launched earlier this year, the challenge—supported by the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) and the German Development Bank, KfW—is in its second edition, following the inaugural event in 2021.
Winners receive grant funding ranging from USD 20,000 to USD 40,000, along with access to expert mentorship, business acceleration, and the chance to establish strategic partnerships.
In a joint press release issued on Wednesday, Dr. John Ogoto Kanisio, Undersecretary for Agriculture at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, affirmed that building sustainable food systems is the cornerstone of South Sudan’s path to food security, economic sovereignty, and climate resilience.
“By investing in young, innovative entrepreneurs, we are not only creating jobs but also unlocking rural potential, driving inclusive agribusiness growth, and cultivating a new generation of leaders who will position South Sudan competitively in regional and global markets. The Ministry is fully committed to this vision, and we call on all partners to join us in empowering youth to lead the transformation of our food systems.”
The top two winners are Africa Cornerstone General Trading and Dream Farm Agribusiness Cooperative. Both companies are proudly women-led and have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to environmental sustainability.
Africa Cornerstone General Trading’s innovation centres on biodegradable and recyclable packaging solutions designed to reduce food waste and lower carbon emissions. Meanwhile, Dream Farm Agribusiness Cooperative has excelled in recycling poultry manure as organic fertiliser, developing sustainable feed solutions, and employing efficient water-saving housing.
Dr. Björn Niere, German Head of Cooperation, stated that the IGNITE Food Systems Challenge demonstrates the power of homegrown solutions from local entrepreneurs.
“Sustainable food systems need exactly these innovations. They also require strong partnerships, clear standards, and a safe and free environment for ideas to flourish. Germany is proud to work with WFP, DANIDA, and local partners to ensure that promising ventures can thrive and have a lasting impact on communities.”
“Lack of access to finance and technical support is stifling the innovations of South Sudanese young entrepreneurs,” said Adham Effendi, WFP’s Acting Country Director in South Sudan.
“Through the generous support of DANIDA and KfW, we are reaching bright and talented entrepreneurs to unlock their potential and provide solutions to food system challenges.”
Following a rigorous selection process from over 200 entries received nationwide, the winners represent a diverse range of sectors, including agri-tech, post-harvest management, livestock production, and sustainable food distribution. The full list of winners includes AgriSmart Farm & Urban Gardens, Golden Farm South Sudan Ltd, Hope and Care for Development, Long Puou Cooperative Society, Lulu Bakes, Mading Chan Young Network Economic Development, Magwi College of Agribusiness & Management Science, National Star Investment Co. Ltd, and Tropical Wet Organics Ltd.
“This is more than just a recognition of entrepreneurial excellence—it’s a turning point for inclusive, homegrown innovation in South Sudan,” said Nanko Madu, Director of Programmes at AfriLabs. “By supporting visionary local businesses, we are not only fueling sustainable economic growth but also proving that transformative change can and must come from within. These entrepreneurs are the architects of a more food-secure, climate-resilient future for South Sudan.”
The challenge is a brainchild of the IGNITE Innovation Hub of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and is implemented through its partners AfriLabs and Seed Grow South Sudan, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. The IGNITE Food Systems Challenge seeks to find and promote locally driven solutions to food system challenges.
Past winners include Hagana Agro Processing Company, which has since grown into a household brand in South Sudan and competes favourably in regional markets.
