- A maize and sorghum cooperative in South Sudan grew from 20 to over 150 members.
- Cooperatives support economic growth while tackling poverty in South Sudan.
- Cooperatives offer paths to peace amid ongoing violence and food insecurity.
- The cooperative model promotes democratic principles at local and national levels.
- Youth involvement in cooperatives helps reduce violence and looting.
Cooperatives Bridging Economic Gaps in South Sudan
In the heart of South Sudan’s Central Equatorial State, a cooperative that began with just 20 members has expanded to a sizable group of 150, dramatically transforming the lives of its members. This cooperative specializes in maize and sorghum production, allowing families to achieve financial stability for the first time. Louis Bagare, who manages cooperatives for the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in South Sudan, emphasized that such initiatives not only enhance livelihoods but are crucial for fostering broader economic development. He pointed out that, on a national scale, embracing cooperatives is essential for lifting the nation out of poverty.
Cooperatives as a Path to Lasting Peace
Beyond just addressing economic needs, cooperatives in South Sudan hold the potential to foster peace and stability. Mr. Bagare stated firmly that cooperatives are pivotal in creating a more secure environment amidst a backdrop of ongoing violence and food insecurity. Following the civil conflict that marred the nation after its independence in 2011, any semblance of peace remains tenuous, challenged further by looting and violence, especially among the youth. Deng William Achiek, representing South Sudan’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, conveyed optimism, noting that cooperatives cultivate unity among people and nurture a sense of national stability.
The Power of Cooperation and Democratic Governance
Cooperatives operate as democratic organizations where risks, labor, and profits are shared among members. According to Oneil Yosia Damia, the Director-General for Cooperative Development in South Sudan, these associations empower individuals who, alone, struggle to advance their social status. He asserted that collective action within cooperatives can elevate living standards. Mr. Bagare further elaborated that if cooperative governance principles take hold locally, they could inspire a broader acceptance of democratic governance across South Sudan. This transformation is vital, allowing communities, particularly the youth, to find productive alternatives to violence; as Mr. Bagare emphasized, when young people are engaged in meaningful income-generating work, their interest in looting diminishes.
Reviving the Cooperative Spirit in South Sudan
The agricultural focus of South Sudan’s cooperatives is evident, yet they span various sectors, including soap, bread, and textiles. This concept of cooperative work is not new to the nation; rather, it has deep cultural roots. Before war disrupted the nation, a vibrant cooperative movement thrived, which Mr. Daima refers to as the ‘golden era’ of cooperative success. He believes that revitalizing these groups is key to steering South Sudan towards a brighter future. Mr. Bagare’s vision encapsulates broader economic integration, stating that with collaboration, a more prosperous nation can emerge. He urged that continued conflict will only lead to self-destruction instead of collective advancement.
In summary, cooperatives in South Sudan have proven to serve dual purposes: so they are fundamentally enhancing economic conditions and promoting peace. As these organizations grow, they not only enable individual families to thrive but also play a crucial role in stabilizing the nation, which is recovering from years of conflict. The ongoing work of figures like Louis Bagare and Deng William Achiek demonstrates the potential of cooperatives to transform lives and foster unity, paving the way for a more hopeful future in the world’s newest country.
