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EU'S WORK FOR CASH EMPOWERING LIVES IN AKOBO EAST COUNTY

A Work for Cash project funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by Save the Children is empowering communities and transforming lives in Akobo East County, Jonglei State. The initiative is providing vulnerable women and youth with income-generating opportunities that strengthen resilience and promote self-reliance. 

Through the project, hundreds of community members mainly women are engaged in public works such as rehabilitating access roads, cleaning markets, and restoring community water points. In return, participants receive cash payments that enable them to meet their basic needs, including food, healthcare, and education for their children.

The Work for Cash model not only provides short-term income support but also builds community assets and improves living conditions in Akobo East, a region often affected by flooding, displacement, and limited livelihood opportunities.

Nyadwa Chole is one of the DRR committee members that worked on the water drainage in Bilkey area said the water channel project enabled her to be able to pay her children’s school fees and take care of her family.

“We were the ones who created this wetter channel, I really appreciate Save the children and the EU DRR for the service that they gave us. We who worked on the project we benefitted a lot”, said Nyadwa Choul.

She added that the initiative has restored hope and dignity to many women who previously depended on humanitarian aid.

“They gave me 450,0000 SSP and I used that part of that money to pay school fees and others I used for buying food items for the family before the project and being given money, I used to collect firewood from the bush and sell to get money which was not enough to take care of the family,” said Nyadwa Choul

So far, the EU-funded Work for Cash initiative has reached more than [insert number] beneficiaries in Akobo East. Many of them are now using their earnings to start small businesses, invest in farming, and support community savings groups.

As the program continues, it is expected to enhance livelihoods, reduce vulnerability, and foster sustainable development in one of South Sudan’s most underserved areas.