By Yang Ater Yang
Akon Buoi Cooperative Society Group in Rumbek, Lakes State has received a new milk handling facility, thanks to a resilience project funded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and implemented by the AVSI Foundation.
The facility, constructed by AVSI, will improve the quality and safety of milk produced by local farmers. It will further provide a central location for milk collection, processing, and distribution, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing farmers’ incomes.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Rumbek Municipal Mayor Akol Paul Manyang expressed gratitude to the Kingdom of the Netherlands for its support.
He highlighted the importance of the project in empowering local communities and boosting the local economy.
“We are happy for the support you have given to our local communities,” Mayor Manyang said. “This milk building was a land given to our mothers to run their businesses, and we, as the government of Lakes State, provided this land to our dear communities so they can carry out their day-to-day businesses.”
Vuren Arend Van, First Secretary of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, stated that the project was a collaboration among different actors which is intended to address challenges faced by local farmers.
“We are working together as a community, and challenges can be overcome,” he said. “This facility symbolizes a collective step forward by addressing challenges faced here in development, particularly those from Cueibet and Wulu counties.”
Andrea Bianchessi, Regional Manager of the AVSI Foundation, mentioned that it is important to empower women through such a project.
“This cooperative is a real sign of our commitment to supporting your empowerment,” he said. “We are going to support you.”
Meanwhile, the State Minister of Agriculture, Poth Majak Daljang, also praised the initiative, mentioning that the government is committed to supporting small businesses.
He acknowledged the need for additional infrastructure, such as water supply and fencing, to ensure the long-term sustainability of the facility.
Local milk seller Hellena Apen Mabil expressed her joy and gratitude for the support but called for improved transportation and water supply.
The new milk facility is expected to impact the livelihoods of local farmers and contribute to the development of the state.