The Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) has called on 32 South Sudanese civil society organizations (CSOs) to ensure transparency, accountability, and sound financial management after receiving grants under a European Union-funded programme aimed at strengthening civil society. The programme, known as the Supporting Civil Society Empowerment in South Sudan (SUCCESS) Programme, was implemented by Mercy Corps in partnership with the Institute for Promotion of Civil Society (IPCS).
The grants were awarded during a ceremony where Mercy Corps and IPCS awarded third-party grants to 32 local organizations. Mach Benjamin, representing the RRC, emphasized that the funds must be used strictly for their intended purposes. He stressed the importance of maintaining proper financial documentation, submitting comprehensive reports, and upholding accountability throughout project implementation.
The SUCCESS Programme is a four-year initiative funded by the European Union, aiming to strengthen locally led development, organizational capacity, and community participation across South Sudan. Under the funding arrangement, civil society and community-based organizations received US$5,688 each, national organizations received US$45,500, while networks and coalitions received US$68,000.
Kubako John Joseph, IPCS Head of Programmes, described the awards as a significant milestone in empowering local organizations to address challenges within their communities. He said successful applicants were selected through a competitive proposal process based on their innovative ideas, community connections, and experience in addressing local challenges.
Lydia Milla, Mercy Corps SUCCESS Programme Manager, said the grant awards marked the next phase of an initiative that began in January 2025. She explained that 40 organizations initially participated in the broader capacity-strengthening process, and following training, coaching, mentorship, and organizational assessments, 32 organizations advanced to the third-party grant phase.
Mercy Corps Country Director Darius Radcliffe said the ceremony represented more than the signing of grant agreements, describing it as recognition of the vital role local organizations play in sustainable development. He emphasized that lasting development depends on local actors having the capacity, resources, and confidence to lead solutions to challenges affecting their communities.
The implementation phase of the SUCCESS Programme would focus on translating strengthened organizational systems into effective community-level interventions while promoting local ownership, accountability, and measurable results. Mercy Corps and IPCS said they would continue providing technical support to the 32 organizations as they implement their respective projects.
Key points
- The RRC has urged 32 CSOs to uphold transparency, accountability, and sound financial management after receiving EU-funded grants.
- The SUCCESS Programme aims to strengthen locally led development, organizational capacity, and community participation across South Sudan.
- The grants were awarded to support effective project implementation, promote inclusive participation, and prioritize sustainability.
