Florence Natural Products and Oils, an enterprise situated in Munuki, Block C, is making notable strides in improving the Agricultural Value Chain Products. Comprising of 15 dedicated members with majority being women (12) and 3 men, is a perfect demonstration of teamwork and resilience. Florence Otto their Chairlady, has navigated this team through many challenges. Earlier this year, the group went through many setbacks, primarily revolving around insufficient capital and high operating costs threatening their growth and sustainability.

However, in April 2024, the group was provided with an interest-free loan of SSP 4,000,000 by The African Development Bank and UNDP which transformed their business. With this money, they were able to pay their rent, stock necessary supplies, and now expand their business. Florence Natural Products and Oils, trades in a variety of branded items including honey, packaged snacks, peanuts, sesame (sim sim), shea butter, processed chili, and soya beans. They plan to introduce dried fish to their catalog.

"To position ourselves as a competitive player in the region, we have been working on obtaining a certificate of standardization from the South Sudan bureau of standards. We have already applied and are waiting for the next steps from the Bureau" says Florence Otto. 

This accreditation is essential for meeting the rigorous standards required by supermarkets and export markets. This certification will open new avenues for the group through the recognition of their products on quality and suitability grounds. The group has also registered their products on Dukaanye.com an online e-commerce trading platform that has increased their visibility and sales, building a new loyal customer base.

In addition to receiving the loan, the members received comprehensive training in entrepreneurship, which has been instrumental in enhancing their business awareness. The training has also endeavored to help members understand market dynamics, financial management, and strategic planning and prepare them to meet future challenges. 

The group had an opportunity to participate in the East African Community Exhibition held in Juba, where they excitedly exhibited their products with other entrepreneurs from South Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, the DRC, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. It gave the group great prospects they showcased and sold their goods to a wider audience. They were also exposed to other networks including fellow vendors and learn new trades and sale strategies. The trade fair also opened new doors by promoting cross-border trade as fellow vendors wanted a supply of agricultural products from the group exported to their respective countries.