The National Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Clement Juma Mbugoniwia, has arrived in Aweil, Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, on a mission aimed at revitalizing one of South Sudan’s most important agricultural projects, the Aweil Rice Scheme.
Speaking shortly after his arrival, Clement said the visit is focused on two key objectives: launching the rice planting season at Basin 7 and inspecting feeder roads linking Aweil Town to major rice-producing areas.
“We have come to Northern Bahr el Ghazal State for two main purposes. First, to launch the Aweil rice planting season at Basin 7, and second, to inspect the feeder roads connecting Aweil Town to Basins 15, 9, 8, and 7,” he said
He noted that the road inspection will cover routes connecting the town to Basins 15, 9, 8, and 7, which play a critical role in supporting agricultural production and transportation within the rice scheme.
According to the minister, the visit will also provide an opportunity to assess the current state of the Aweil Rice Scheme and identify challenges affecting its performance.
He said the findings from the assessment will help the national government determine the necessary interventions required to improve productivity and strengthen food security efforts in the region.
The Aweil Rice Scheme is one of South Sudan’s flagship agricultural initiatives and has long been viewed as a strategic project capable of reducing dependence on imported food while boosting local production.
State officials say the minister’s visit reflects the national government’s commitment to supporting agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and rural development.
Northern Bahr el Ghazal State Minister of Information and Communication, Gabriel Deng Yel, said Governor Charles Madut officially welcomed the national minister and his delegation to the state.
He explained that the visit is intended to evaluate the progress made under the rice scheme and examine obstacles that may be limiting its full potential.
Minister Gabriel said the assessment is important because the project remains a national priority with the capacity to contribute significantly to food production and livelihoods across the country.
Beyond the rice scheme, the minister is also expected to visit Aweil East County and Aweil South County, where several agricultural initiatives are currently being implemented under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
The visits are expected to provide first-hand insight into ongoing farming activities and the needs of local communities engaged in agricultural production.
State authorities have also highlighted the prevailing peace and stability in Northern Bahr el Ghazal, describing the security situation as conducive for development projects and investment in agriculture.
Officials expressed optimism that the minister’s visit and the launch of the planting season will help accelerate efforts to increase rice production, improve infrastructure, and strengthen South Sudan’s drive toward greater food self-sufficiency.
