 aimed at transforming the lives of five million vulnerable children through humanitarian assistance, community development, and strong advocacy for lasting change.){kind=link}
By Ginaba Lino
World Vision South Sudan has launched a new five-year country strategy (2026–2030) aimed at transforming the lives of five million vulnerable children through humanitarian assistance, community development, and strong advocacy for lasting change.
The strategy, unveiled in Juba, reaffirms the organization’s commitment to supporting national priorities, promoting peace, and improving the well-being of children and families in partnership with government institutions, communities, and development agencies.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Mesfin Loha, World Vision South Sudan Country Director, described the strategy as “a declaration of shared purpose, shared responsibility, and shared hope for the children of South Sudan.” He emphasized that the new roadmap is built on three core pillars: delivering measurable impact, adapting to humanitarian realities, and ensuring sustainability through localization, climate action, and inclusion.
The strategic plan focuses on improving child health and nutrition, strengthening child protection systems, and enhancing community peace and resilience. Dr. Mesfin also highlighted a commitment to agile programming capable of responding to shifts in climate, funding, and local needs.
“We aim to empower communities by transforming mindsets, promoting economic resilience, and protecting the natural environment,” he said.
As part of the new direction, World Vision announced a School Meals Business Plan, developed with the World Food Programme and the government’s Homegrown School Feeding Strategy, to address hunger, improve nutrition, and boost school attendance.
Representing children’s voices, Beyoncé Sbegbia Emiyore, a student at King’s Academy and member of the National Children’s Council, welcomed the initiative, saying it brings renewed hope for young people. She, however, raised concerns over child labour, forced marriage, hunger, and limited access to education and healthcare.
“Many children are working on the streets instead of studying,” she said. “We need protection, education, and good health to reach our dreams.”
On behalf of the government, Payai John, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Environment, praised World Vision’s longstanding support, particularly in promoting sustainable development and environmental protection. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to climate resilience, clean water, reforestation, and integrating climate education into schools.
“Our children deserve a nation where their dreams can grow freely—a nation with clean air, safe water, and a stable climate,” he said.
Closing the event, Dr. Mesfin thanked government officials, partners, and communities for shaping the new strategic direction, noting that the launch marks the beginning of coordinated action to improve children’s lives.
World Vision now marking 75 years of global service and over 40 years in South Sudan—operates in 49 of the country’s 79 counties. Through its 2026–2030 strategy, the organization aims to ensure that every child in South Sudan has the opportunity to survive, thrive, and reach their full potential.