LocationsAfrican Cornerstone: African Development Bank and UNDP Expanding Opportunities Through Access to Finance and Private Sector Development
April 16, 2026
Two staff members are using a groundnut processing machine to produce groundnut paste.
African Cornerstone is an emerging medium-sized enterprise based in Juba, South Sudan, contributing to local economic development through value addition and job creation. Established three years ago, the company has steadily expanded its operations by focusing on producing and distributing essential food products made from locally sourced raw materials. The enterprise produces simsim oil, groundnut products, and blended soybean (SPS).
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in South Sudan face a fragile operating environment, with about 45 percent failing within five years and over 60 percent not surviving beyond three years. These high failure rates are driven by limited access to finance, weak financial management practices, and an unpredictable business climate marked by insecurity, inflation, and poor infrastructure. Many businesses remain informal due to costly and complex registration processes, further restricting access to credit and support systems. As a local enterprise, African Cornerstone was not excluded from these challenges.
However, in 2024, the business received a 6 million South Sudanese Pounds interest–free loan from the African Development Bank and UNDP, which gave their business a much-needed boost. They used the loan to procure raw materials such as simsim (sesame), groundnuts, and soybeans. This investment strengthened production capacity and enabled more consistent output, allowing the company to respond effectively to growing market demand and grow. They also improved their packaging as part of their marketing strategy. A key milestone for African Cornerstone has been obtaining certification from the South Sudan Bureau of Standards. This recognition affirms the quality of its products and creates opportunities for broader market access and export potential. The expansion into regional markets reflects increasing confidence in the quality and reliability of its products. They have started getting orders for SimSim oil and Groundnut oil in Kenya and Uganda.
The enterprise currently employs eight staff members on a permanent basis, including six women, and provides opportunities as casual laborers. In addition to employment, the company plays a role in skills development by training young people in production processes and basic business practices, supporting their transition into income-generating activities.
Lillian, an employee at African Cornerstone, speaks to us about one of the products during the interview.
One of the employees, 22-year-old Alal Lillian James, works as a sales officer at African Cornerstone. A married mother of one, she learned about an open position at the enterprise and decided to apply. After being successfully recruited, she notes that the opportunity has significantly improved her life. Through her role, she has gained a stable income and now contributes to household expenses alongside her husband, while also finding fulfillment in her work.
“This job has changed my life. I am now able to support my family, contribute to our household, and plan for my child’s future. It gives me pride and confidence knowing that I am making a difference every day,” says Lillian James
Looking ahead, the company intends to expand production capacity by acquiring additional machinery to meet growing demand, particularly for its oil products. It also plans to widen its distribution network beyond Juba into other states, strengthening its national footprint and improving product accessibility across South Sudan. In addition, the company is committed to creating more employment opportunities by recruiting, training, and empowering both youth and women, while strategically positioning itself to explore export markets and increase regional competitiveness.
Peter Kamisiro, Business Development Manager at African Cornerstone, during his interview
"The support from UNDP and the African Development Bank has been instrumental in strengthening our business. Operating in South Sudan is challenging, especially with limited access to credit as financial institutions remain cautious about lending to MSEs. Please continue to invest in youth and women, as it creates sustainable incomes that reduce crime and inequalities by enabling self-reliance,” says Peter Kamisiro.