Harvesting Equality & Empowering Women with the CARE South Sudan's FEED II Project

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By Kenyi Evans, Senior Communications Officer, CARE South Sudan

Fortifying Equality and Economic Diversification for Resilience (FEED II) is a groundbreaking women's empowerment initiative that leverages food security and livelihood strategies to transform lives in South Sudan. This ambitious project, implemented by a consortium led by World Vision in partnership with CARE and War Child Canada, and funded by Global Affairs Canada, spans seven states: Central Equatoria, Western Equatoria, Eastern Equatoria, Warrap, Northern Bahr el Ghazal, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Jonglei.

South Sudan's complex gender dynamics, shaped by traditional practices, decades of civil war, and the challenges of newfound nationhood, form the backdrop for FEED II's innovative approach. The Social Analysis and Action (SAA) methodology is at the heart of this initiative, a powerful tool designed to dismantle barriers that have long prevented women from assuming leadership roles in their communities. SAA is not just a program; it's a transformative journey. Through facilitated discussions, community members explore and challenge ingrained social norms, beliefs, and practices that have historically limited women's potential. By fostering open dialogue and collective action, SAA aims to create more equitable norms while championing sexual, reproductive, maternal health, and economic rights for women.

The impact of FEED II is vividly illustrated through the experiences of participants like Achol, a member of a Farmer Field and Business School (FFBS). "My husband and I have developed an excellent habit of coming together to envision and plan for our family's future," she shares, highlighting the program's success in fostering gender equality at the household level. CARE's FFBS model stands out as a scalable solution for empowering small-scale farmers and producers. It equips participants with vital skills to increase production, enhance resilience, adapt to climate change, and diversify diets – all crucial elements for sustainable development in South Sudan.

Rachael Anai Achol, a 35-year-old mother of five from Kolnyang Payam in Bor, Jonglei state, embodies the transformative power of FEED II. As a member of the Mading-Gal FFBS/Bee Keeping group, she has witnessed a profound change in her life. "My knowledge of gender roles, nutrition, and beekeeping has expanded significantly," Rachael explains. "These new skills have opened doors to success and prosperity I never imagined possible."


Rachel Anai shares her personal experience with the FEED II team in Bor. CARE South Sudan

The program's holistic approach has yielded impressive results. Participants have transitioned from subsistence farming to agribusiness, mastering the entire agricultural process from sowing to selling. This shift has not only improved economic outcomes but has also had a profound impact on social dynamics. "There has been less domestic violence since CARE helped us become less dependent on our spouses," Rachael notes, highlighting the link between economic empowerment and reduced gender-based violence.

CARE and Consortium FEED II partners with Anai’s group during
an insightful monitoring visit in Bor, Jonglei State. CARE South Sudan


Regina Matengo, Gender and Protection Advisor for FEED II, emphasizes one of the project's most significant achievements: the adoption of joint decision-making at both family and community levels. This paradigm shift has empowered men and women to collaborate more effectively, strengthening family bonds and community structures.

The ripple effects of FEED II extend beyond economic empowerment. Achol reflects on the broader impact: "We learned about gender equality, but also about the importance of nutrition and proper infant care. We discovered that exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months can greatly benefit a baby's health."

As FEED II continues to unfold across South Sudan, it stands as a beacon of hope and a model for sustainable, gender-inclusive development. By interweaving economic empowerment with social transformation, the project is not just changing lives – it's reshaping the future of a nation.

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