July 2011: ACTED launches an emergency call for donations, to support populations affected by the drought and famine in the Horn of Africa

The road to early recovery: supporting improved access to basic services and food security in Sudan

In South Sudan, ACTED expanded its efforts to ensure access to basic services, such as water and sanitation services, and supported local efforts to increase agricultural production and food security in underserved areas.

Early recovery in South Sudan

In 2010, ACTED prepared for a historic vote on independence in South Sudan with re-doubled efforts to address emergency needs and support the expansion of basic services in the region. Due to erratic rains and poor harvests in 2009, food insecurity presented a serious challenge in many parts of the region.  ACTED therefore continued to support increasing agricultural production in “bread basket” regions, in order to encourage local solutions to food shortages. As part of its widespread support to farmers, ACTED distributed seeds and tools to 8,000 households, supported increased land cultivation through donkey and tractor plowing, supported construction of more than 100 household granaries, and introduced improved agricultural techniques, including composting. At the same time, ACTED sought to increase access to water and sanitation services in previously underserved areas in South Sudan. To this end, ACTED constructed and rehabilitated 30 water points, supported almost 200 households in constructing household latrines, constructed latrines at 10 schools, and trained 1,500 people in hygiene promotion strategies. ACTED also strengthened its relationship with the county-level Department of Rural Water Development, as well as local partner Sawa Sawa Society for Women’s Development, in order to sustain these activities.

Scaling up support in an historic year of change in Sudan

With the creation of the Republic of South Sudan on 9 July, 2011 is a critical year for recovery and development throughout the country. In South Sudan, important work to improve basic access to services is still needed in many parts of the world’s youngest country. Approximately 600,000 returnees, mostly Southerners returning to the region from Northern Sudan are expected throughout 2011. In addition to continuing to improve access to basic water and sanitation services, ACTED focuses on supporting the sustainable reintegration of these communities, through emergency support during the immediate return process, and long term livelihoods support in both rural and urban areas. With high needs and new opportunities for collaboration with a burgeoning government and private sector, ACTED should significantly expand its intervention in South Sudan.