In a bold initiative to strengthen youth entrepreneurship and economic resilience in South Sudan, Tukul Africa, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will host a Business-to-Business (B2B) Market Linkage Event for youth-led Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) in Bor Town, Jonglei State.
The one-day event aims to connect 75 youth-led MSEs, aged between 18 and 35, with key market players, buyers, suppliers, and financial service providers. The initiative seeks to foster innovation, create new commercial partnerships, and expand market access for young entrepreneurs who form the backbone of Jonglei’s growing local economy.
According to Tukul Africa’s Head of Programmes, the event is part of ongoing efforts to empower young business owners who often struggle to access profitable markets due to limited networking opportunities and business exposure.
“This event is about giving youth-led enterprises the visibility and connections they deserve. We want to open doors for them to access real business opportunities and build sustainable partnerships,” said the Head of Programmes.
Micro and Small Enterprises play a crucial role in job creation across Jonglei State. However, many face persistent challenges such as limited access to finance, weak value chain integration, and inadequate market linkages. The B2B Market Linkage Event seeks to bridge these gaps through interactive networking sessions, business exhibitions, pitching opportunities, and facilitated deal-making.
Akuol Makuei, a businesswoman selling salted fish at Leudiet Market, expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that it will help boost their business connections.
“We are engaged in small-scale retail businesses mainly to support our children, but we lack enough capital. We urge you to continue supporting us with financial assistance so we can become stronger,” said Makuei.
Dau Abuoi, UNDP Coordinator, encouraged the small-scale entrepreneurs to strengthen their connections with key market players.
“You need to understand the products you are selling and build relationships with wholesalers and suppliers in your market chain. For those in the salted fish business, connect with boat operators and main sellers to strengthen your network,” said Abuoi.
Simon Machiek, Director General at the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sports, commended the participants for their entrepreneurial efforts.
“I’m happy that you are producing valuable goods such as soap here in Jonglei State. What saddens me is that our people sometimes fail to value locally made products. We should take pride in what we produce,” said Machiek.
Organizers expect the event to deliver tangible results, with at least 20 commercial dealsprojected to be initiated and 60% of participants expected to report increased market knowledge. The event also promotes inclusivity, targeting 40% participation by women entrepreneurs.
Following the event, Tukul Africa will conduct a structured follow-up from August to November 2025, monitoring business linkages, partnership outcomes, and market expansion. Findings will be compiled into a final report for UNDP by the end of November.
The initiative has attracted broad stakeholder participation from the private sector, government institutions, development partners, and the Jonglei Chamber of Commerce.
Both Tukul Africa and UNDP view the B2B Market Linkage Event as part of a broader strategy to stimulate private sector growth and enhance youth employment opportunities in Jonglei State.