(KAPOETA EAST COUNTY, EASTERN EQUATORIA) – The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is providing limited amounts of supplementary livestock feed in Narus, Kapoeta East County, to help maintain livestock body condition and protect productive assets amid prolonged dry conditions and declining pasture availability.
Drought is putting growing pressure on livestock based livelihoods in South Sudan. As pasture and natural forage decline, pastoralists are being forced to move their livestock over longer distances in search of water and grazing, contributing to deteriorating body condition, reduced milk production and, in some areas, leading to livestock deaths.
The intervention encouraged livestock keepers to prioritise pregnant and lactating animals for supplementary feeding, helping protect critical livestock assets while maintaining milk production for calves and, where possible, household consumption.
The support is funded by the African Development Bank Group through the Programme to Build Resilience for Food and Nutrition Security in the Horn of Africa (BREFONS) and the European Union in South Sudan through the Regional Programme in Livestock and Pastoralism for Climate Change Adaptation in Eastern and Horn of Africa (PLACE).
In related news, FAO South Sudan and One Health partners joined the global community in marking World Rabies Day under the theme “Stronger Together.”
FAO supports rabies prevention in South Sudan through the vaccination of dogs, helping protect both people and animals from the deadly disease.
By strengthening collaboration across human and animal health and local communities, rabies can be eliminated and healthier, safer communities built for all. The partners said together, they can help achieve the goal of Zero by 2030.
Meanwhile, FAO South Sudan has invited farmers to listen to the agricultural programme Zira Tanna “Our Farm” on Radio Miraya 101 FM and Eye Radio 98.6 FM.
On Radio Miraya, the programme airs from 06:00 to 07:00 am every Saturday. On Eye Radio, it airs from 05:00 to 06:00 pm every Friday and from 08:00 to 09:00 am every Saturday.
On Radio Miraya, the programme explores the livestock status in Unity State, highlighting efforts to improve livestock production and support pastoralist communities.
On Eye Radio, the discussion focuses on drought and resilience in Kapoeta East, and how communities are coping and protecting livelihoods and livestock with support from FAO South Sudan.
FAO described the programme as a trusted source for practical insights into agriculture, exploring how vital sectors strengthen food security, promote healthier diets and improve quality of life.
Listeners will also receive expert advice, inspiring stories and innovative ideas to support farmers, herders and fishers across the nation, as well as regular weather updates and forecasts for the coming week.
