- Over 250 Sudanese learners completed the first phase of UNITAR "Rapid Assistance for Sudan: Promoting Socioeconomic Stability through Institutional Capacity and Livelihood Development" training programme on 21 December 2024.
- Almost two years after war erupted, Sudan continues to endure instability, economic decline and the forced displacement of millions.
- This Japan-funded online training programme aims to equip learners with digital and entrepreneurial skills to help Sudanese nationals build their climate-resilient and innovative businesses to address food insecurity and poverty.
- The second phase is an an online boot camp followed by a two-day virtual hackathon which started in February 2025. The top 20 participants will move on to the third phase.
4 February 2025, Geneva, Switzerland - Over 250 Sudanese women and youth completed the first phase of the UNITAR " Rapid Assistance for Sudan: Promoting Socioeconomic Stability through Institutional Capacity and Livelihood Development " training programme. The programme launched in August 2024 with funding from the Government and People of Japan and seeks to foster entrepreneurship - particularly agribusiness - as well as digital literacy and climate resilience to address food insecurity and poverty in a country that continues to face escalating humanitarian crises almost two years after conflict erupted.
Empowering Sudanese communities affected by conflict and displacement to rebuild livelihoods and support peace efforts is crucial for the country's future, and there is a high demand for capacity-building opportunities. Accordingly, the UNITAR programme initially set out to train 150 participants but expanded enrolment to 300, recognizing the critical need for wider engagement - especially from women - and a sustainable response to the ongoing violence that disrupts lives and hinders the country's growth.
Phase 1: Resilient Growth for Prosperous Futures
The programme has three phases. Phase I, dubbed Resilient Growth for Prosperous Futures, ran from August to December 2024. It consisted of comprehensive online training on entrepreneurship, innovation, and digital skills, including lessons from Hiroshima's post-World War II reconstruction.
Through Phase I, the learners engaged in a series of 24 webinars, complemented by individualized communications. Participants completed asynchronous learning modules while building a supportive community that encouraged collaboration and the application of new skills. The online programme was a lifeline for many Sudanese, particularly those forced to flee their homes due to conflict. The five-month phase included expert-led sessions, participant-driven webinars, and guidance from professionals across business, financial institutions, regulatory bodies, and government. These experts provided valuable insights to support participants in developing their business plans.
Achievements From Phase 1
The programme showed some important outcomes.
Women and youth empowerment: A strong emphasis on participation by women not only advanced their economic empowerment but showcased their role as catalysts for community-wide development.
Business models and entrepreneurship opportunities with experts: Sessions on designing business models and developing business plans received high praise from participants who gained practical insights into starting and sustaining ventures, especially in the agricultural sector. Regional business experts supported participants so they can create value not only for the Sudanese market but for the region.
Interactive webinars and real-life examples: Participant-led webinars fostered peer-to-peer learning and provided tangible examples of successful ventures and community engagement. These interactive formats made the learning more engaging and directly applicable to everyday challenges.
Digital skills and emerging technologies: Participants enhanced their professional skill sets in digital literacy, AI and blockchain, paving the way for greater digital inclusion and resilience in an evolving, technology-driven marketplace. A highlight was UNITAR alumna Inshirah Idris's mentorship on AI and technology. Her experience spans continents and underscores the importance of building skills for women and aligning businesses to emerging technologies.
Next Phases
The second phase of the programme began this February. It is a one-month online boot camp for the top 40 performers from Phase I, followed by a two-day virtual hackathon. The top 20 participants will move on to the third phase scheduled for two weeks in March 2025.
Phase II: The Resilient Squad
- Business plan pitch
- Mentorship from successful entrepreneurs from Sudan, Kenya and Uganda
- Ecosystem engagement - info session with diverse stakeholders such as Mr. Awadallah Babiker, Head of Investment, Savings and Social Development Bank and Mr. Mohammed Ishag, Gedaref Branch Manager, Savings and Social Development Bank
Phase III: Resilient Futures for Peace and Prosperity
Twenty outstanding participants will have the opportunity to present their pitches to a global audience, with professionals from business, financial, and government institutions in attendance - and access to potential funding opportunities. Participants will be evaluated based on the following criteria: job creation potential, understanding of the market gap or opportunity, sustainability and innovation, "build back better" principles, and capacity for implementation.
Testimonials
The first phase of the UNITAR course was extremely eye-opening. It challenged me to think critically about my business ideas and provided the frameworks to develop a solid plan. I feel much more confident in my abilities now." -Salma Kamil, programme participant, Gedaref state
Leaving my home due to conflict was incredibly difficult, and I felt lost and uncertain about the future. This programme helped me regain my footing. I realized there are opportunities beyond traditional government jobs. The training gave me practical business skills and a renewed sense of hope." - Khadija Adam Ahmed, programme participant
Participating in an entrepreneurship training programme with an international organization was a transformative experience that equipped me with essential skills to navigate the business world. This comprehensive training enhanced my entrepreneurial mindset and prepared me to identify opportunities, tackle challenges and contribute meaningfully to the global business landscape." - Dahab Abaker Dahab Elnour, programme participant
