Page 103 - 80 YEARS OF VOLUNTEER IMPACT WITH FAO

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Solomon Bekele

SUPPORTING LIVESTOCK LIVELIHOODS

THROUGH EDUCATION IN SOUTH SUDAN

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In South Sudan, FAO and UNESCO, backed by the European Union, supported pastoralist communities to strengthen
livestock-based livelihoods. By bringing knowledge and skills directly into cattle camps, the project helped herding families
adapt to changing conditions.

Solomon Bekele, a UN Volunteer with UNESCO, managed the education component and worked closely with FAO and
government partners. “I gained a lot of experience relating to professional aspects, as well as working with people having
diverse areas of expertise, cultures, backgrounds and experiences.”

Local and county facilitators trained through the project now deliver sessions in the camps, covering literacy, numeracy and
life skills alongside livestock-related knowledge. Materials and technical support ensured the curriculum met the needs of
mobile communities.

With new skills and improved practices, pastoralist families saw more diverse livelihoods and better nutrition. By linking
traditional herding with practical education and support, the initiative helped build stronger, more resilient rural lives.