In a historic move to modernize the management of cooperative societies, South Sudan on Tuesday launched its first-ever electronic registration system for cooperatives.
The milestone initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and supported by the African Development Bank and World Bank, aims to bring greater transparency, efficiency, and accountability to the cooperative sector.
“This is the first of its kind in South Sudan,” said Hussein Abdelbagi Akol, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, during the official launch. “The new system will not only preserve and manage cooperative data but will also unlock the potential of cooperatives to transform livelihoods and fight poverty.”
He stressed that cooperatives play a crucial role in improving the socioeconomic status of communities – particularly women, youth, and vulnerable groups.
“Through cooperatives, people come together to create jobs and support one another. This platform ensures that everyone has a chance to work and earn a living both within and outside of the cooperative structure,” he added.
FAO Country Representative Meshack Malo described the digital system as a vital shift from outdated analog processes to a modern, efficient framework.
“This digital transition is more than just a technical upgrade. It’s a protection mechanism,” said Malo. “We have seen cases where cooperative members are exploited by officials. With this system, we want to ensure integrity and fairness.”
The platform will centralize and streamline the registration of all cooperative movements nationwide.
“As the Cooperative Bank, this is a moment of pride for us. Cooperatives are in our DNA. This system allows us to identify and support genuine cooperatives across the country,” said Stephen Almadi, Head of the Cooperative Department at the Cooperative Bank of South Sudan.
The new electronic register is expected to enhance trust, attract investment, and empower communities – setting the stage for economic transformation through a digitally managed cooperative sector.
