“When you empower a woman, you empower the entire society. WPDI is making South Sudan shine brighter through the resilience and strength of its women.”
December 8, 2025 – As October came to a close, a renewed sense of hope and determination filled Terekeka and Juba as WPDI, with the support of SkinnyDipped and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), launched the third cohort of the Women’s Livelihood Accelerated Training Program.
Throughout the launch, the atmosphere was electric as 150 women gathered to begin a journey that promises not only knowledge but also long-term economic transformation. The training introduces participants to practical business management, financial literacy, proposal development, and market readiness skills designed to help women start and grow sustainable enterprises. Session after session, the program reveals itself to be a lifeline, equipping women with the tools, confidence, and support to navigate South Sudan’s evolving economic landscape.
WPDI’s Deputy Country Manager, Gama Hassan, underscored the program’s significance and encouraged participants to approach the training with discipline and commitment. He highlighted that the initiative provides not only knowledge but also continuous mentorship and technical support, ensuring that women can build businesses that can endure market shifts. “We want to see women not merely starting businesses but nurturing and growing them,” he emphasized, reminding the new cohort that their participation and perseverance are key to unlocking their full potential.
Community leaders and government officials also voiced their support. Cicilia Laku Wani, Chairlady of the Central Equatoria State Women’s Union, expressed profound gratitude to WPDI and its partners for investing in women’s livelihoods at a time when economic challenges remain significant. She noted that empowering women has a ripple effect: strengthening families, communities, and ultimately the nation. “When you empower a woman, you empower the entire society,” she shared. “WPDI is making South Sudan shine brighter through the resilience and strength of its women.”
The message of solidarity was echoed by Hon. Stephen Lado Onesimo, State Minister of Trade and Industry, who affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs. He encouraged participants to develop clear business plans, formalize their cooperatives, and prepare to take advantage of opportunities such as the forthcoming Gumbo Market and the newly announced women’s enterprise centers. His remarks reinforced a shared understanding that women are the backbone of economic recovery and their success is integral to South Sudan’s future.
Representing SDC, Ms. Larissa Beutler reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to strengthening women’s economic participation. She encouraged women to embrace innovation, adopt digital tools, and expand their products beyond traditional markets, emphasizing that progress requires both creativity and persistence. Her message was clear: there are no failures, only opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed together.
Stories of impact from earlier cohorts added to the sense of momentum. Helen Kaku, Deputy Chairlady of the Terekeka County Women’s Association, shared how women previously supported by WPDI had begun to transform their lives, supporting their families, building homes, and improving their living standards. Her testimony served as a reminder that when women receive the support they need, the results are tangible and far-reaching.
As the launch came to a close, the women stood united in their determination to make the most of this opportunity. Their presence reflected a collective desire not only to enhance their businesses but also to restore dignity, strengthen resilience, and contribute to the development of their communities. The days ahead will require commitment, creativity, and courage, but the foundation laid during this launch ensures that each participant embarks on this journey with support, knowledge, and renewed confidence.
The success of this event is a testament to the transformative power of partnership. Through the ongoing support of SkinnyDipped and SDC, and the determination of the women of Central Equatoria, WPDI continues to champion inclusive economic growth, one entrepreneur at a time.
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