AfDB Extends South Sudan Strategy to 2027 to Support Stability, Recovery and Reform

The AfDB’s extended strategy aims to reinforce these gains and maintain momentum toward long-term peace and development.

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has approved an extension of its Interim Country Strategy Paper (ICSP) for South Sudan through 2027, signalling sustained commitment to the nation at a time of deep fragility. The extension reflects the Bank’s intention to help South Sudan navigate overlapping challenges—conflict, climate shocks and limited infrastructure—while advancing early progress on political transition, institutional reform and economic stabilization.

Despite enormous obstacles, South Sudan has made steps toward improving governance and strengthening macroeconomic management. The AfDB’s extended strategy aims to reinforce these gains and maintain momentum toward long-term peace and development.

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Two Strategic Priorities: Infrastructure and Institutional Capacity

The updated ICSP centers on two pillars that have proven fundamental to South Sudan’s recovery:

1. Essential Infrastructure for Services, Agriculture and Connectivity

Under this priority, the Bank will continue investing in:

• Transport networks to reduce isolation and connect communities to markets

• Energy access initiatives to expand reliable and affordable electricity

• Water supply and sanitation systems to improve public health and service delivery

These investments are vital in a country where basic infrastructure has been repeatedly damaged by conflict and seasonal flooding. Better rural infrastructure is expected to boost agricultural production, improve food security, strengthen value chains, and create livelihood opportunities—especially for communities affected by displacement.

2. Strengthening Core State Institutions and Governance

The Bank will support reforms in:

• Public financial management (PFM)

• Debt oversight and macroeconomic governance

• Planning, budgeting and service-delivery systems

• Inter-ministerial coordination and development partner engagement

These improvements aim to help South Sudan build a more transparent, efficient and accountable public sector—critical for restoring trust, managing national resources, and attracting domestic and external investment.

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A Strong Focus on Climate Resilience and Risk Reduction

South Sudan remains extremely vulnerable to climate shocks, particularly recurrent flooding that destroys homes, roads, cropland and public infrastructure. The strategy emphasizes:

• Climate-resilient infrastructure

• Early-warning systems and risk-informed planning

• Investments that reduce long-term humanitarian needs

This approach is designed to help communities withstand future disruptions and support a transition from crisis response to sustainable development.

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Delivering Impact Where It Is Needed Most

“The extension keeps vital support flowing when communities need it most,” said Themba Bhebhe, the AfDB’s outgoing Country Manager for South Sudan.

“It strengthens the foundations of stability and gives South Sudan the tools to rebuild, recover and grow.”

The Bank expects the extended strategy to deliver measurable progress, including:

• Improved road and transport access for isolated and vulnerable populations

• Increased reliability of water supply systems

• Enhanced governance and financial management capacity

• A more stable environment for economic activity and investment

These outcomes support South Sudan’s broader goals of peacebuilding, strengthening social cohesion and expanding economic opportunities for its people.

Bhebhe added:

“Our focus remains on delivering real, tangible change for ordinary people by supporting recovery today that lays the groundwork for a more peaceful and prosperous South Sudan.”

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A Continued Partnership for Peace and Prosperity

With this extension, the AfDB reaffirms its role as one of the leading development partners working to stabilize South Sudan, support governance reforms, and finance essential infrastructure. The strategy aims not only to address immediate recovery needs but also to prepare the foundation for long-term, inclusive growth.