JUBA, August 30, 2024 — In a significant move to address food insecurity, the government of South Sudan, in collaboration with the Ramciel Cooperative Society and B`Smart Technology, announced the arrival of 45 trucks loaded with essential food items. The items, including maize flour, wheat flour, rice, and sugar, will be sold at subsidized prices to help stabilize the market and ensure public access to affordable food.

National Trade and Industry Minister Joseph Moum Majak made the announcement Thursday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to closing the hunger gap by providing these staples at reduced costs. “On behalf of Ramciel Cooperative Society, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ministry of Finance and Planning, and other stakeholders, I would like to take this opportunity to inform the general public that the government of South Sudan imported essential food items to be sold to the general public,” Majak stated.

He assured that the initiative would continue, despite challenges such as limited hard currency and road access. “The idea of bringing these food items at subsidized prices is to stabilize the market and have public access to essential items and at the same time close the hunger gap,” Majak explained.

In addition to the current supplies, the Minister disclosed that 30 more trucks are expected from Tanzania in the coming days. However, he did not specify the criteria for distribution or the financial investment in the project.

Mabior Anyang Ajang, Acting Manager for B`Smart Technology, echoed the government’s sentiments, stating, “We supply all the items in order to stabilize the market.”

This collaborative effort marks a critical step toward alleviating hunger and ensuring food security in South Sudan amidst ongoing economic challenges.