The Sustainability Agrifood Systems Approach for Sudan (SASAS) project was a USAID-funded initiative in Sudan’s Blue Nile Region and White Nile State from October 1, 2023, to December 29, 2024. The project was a coordinated response to the agricultural sector challenges in Sudan, aiming primarily to enhance community resilience and break the cycle of poor agricultural yields, food and income insecurity, and dependency on foreign aid.

The project made significant progress in boosting agricultural productivity and market access for over 25,000 SHFs across the White Nile State and Blue Nile Region. Through (private sector) partnerships, the project facilitated the subsidized sale of summer and winter seeds such as watermelons, okra, and cucumber seeds. Summer crops were supported, with a partner organization supplying sorghum, sesame, and groundnut seeds to 25,662 SHFs across 13 targeted villages. The project also implemented seed awareness campaigns, training SHFs on best planting practices and post-harvest management.

Key achievements included the integration of solar-powered irrigation and processing technologies, and the establishment of a solar-powered cold storage hub in Almakhada village. These efforts have contributed towards higher productivity, reduced post-harvest losses, and sustainable year-round farming. The project also advanced agro-processing with progress in constructing the Yerwa Tomato Paste Factory, which enhanced value chains for over 737 cooperative members. Community Action Plans (CAPs) played a critical role in fostering local engagement, transparency, and co-designed solutions. By adapting to challenges, including high illiteracy rates and logistical hurdles, the project demonstrated its resilience and commitment to promoting sustainable livelihoods for SHFs.