The Central Equatoria State Government, in partnership with the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative (WPDI), has launched the third cohort of the Women’s Livelihood Project.
The project aimed at empowering underserved women in Juba City, Juba County, and Terekeka County through entrepreneurship and business management training.
The program seeks to boost women’s economic participation by equipping them with skills to start and sustain income-generating ventures, fostering self-reliance and community development.
Mariam Aguil Alex, Advisor to the Governor on Gender, Child and Social Welfare, described the initiative as a “tool for self-reliance and peacebuilding.”
“This training empowers underprivileged women by enhancing their entrepreneurship skills. Economically empowered women lift their families out of poverty and contribute to peace in their communities,” she said.
Stephen Ladu, Minister of Trade and Industry, emphasized the need for seed capital and enterprise infrastructure to complement training programs.
“We have people with talent and skills but without startup capital. Business planning helps participants understand products, markets, and branding,” he said, calling for the creation of Women Enterprise Centers to incubate small businesses.
Larrisa Beutler, First Secretary and Program Manager at the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), commended the initiative as a model for sustainable development and inclusive growth.
“Empowering people is more valuable than short-term aid. With these skills, women can grow their businesses and strengthen South Sudan’s economy,” she said, urging participants to embrace digital tools and innovation.
Gamal Hassan, Deputy Country Manager of WPDI, reaffirmed the organization’s long-term commitment to women and youth empowerment.
“This initiative is not just about training, it’s about transformation. When women manage successful businesses, they uplift their communities,” he said.
The launch brought together government officials, development partners, and women’s organizations, including Ms. Cecilia, Chairlady of the Central Equatoria State Women’s Union.
Since its inception, the project has trained hundreds of women in small business management, many of whom now run enterprises that support household income and local job creation.
With the third cohort underway, organizers expressed confidence in building on a legacy of resilience, innovation, and empowerment.
“Together, we can ensure that women in Central Equatoria State are not just participants but leaders in economic growth and peacebuilding,” Mariam concluded.
