By Lodu William Odiya
The Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) has cautioned civil society organisations (CSOs) receiving grants under the SUCCESS Programme against diverting funds from their intended purposes.
Speaking during an awards signing ceremony, RRC Deputy Chief Registrar Mach Benjamin said the grants were not only financial support but also a commitment to strengthening civil society, supporting community-led solutions and promoting meaningful participation in issues affecting communities.
Mach said the RRC recognises the important role played by civil society organisations in South Sudan, noting that many CSOs work closely with communities and are therefore better positioned to understand local priorities, challenges, and opportunities.
“We therefore welcome the support provided through the SUCCESS Programme to strengthen the capacity and effectiveness of civil society organisations and to enable them to contribute more effectively to inclusive and accountable development,” he said.
Mach congratulated organisations receiving the grants but reminded them that the funding comes with responsibility.
“This award is both an opportunity and a responsibility. We encourage you to use these resources entrusted to you responsibly, transparently, and strictly for the intended purpose,” he said.
He warned that some organisations had previously changed the purposes for which grants were awarded, describing corruption within parts of the NGO sector as a concern.
“I need all of us to take those three words when you are implementing this grant because I am part of the people who evaluate all the documents when they are brought for renewal, and it has happened that there is rampant corruption within the NGO sector,” Mach said.
He added that the RRC would closely monitor the implementation of the grants to ensure that funds are used for their approved purposes.
According to Mach, strong financial management, proper documentation, accountability to communities, and compliance with relevant requirements must remain central to implementation.
He also urged the organisations to ensure the meaningful participation of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised groups in decision-making and community processes.
For her part, Lydia Milla, Mercy Corps SUCCESS Programme Manager, said the grants are intended to strengthen the capacity, resilience, and sustainability of civil society organisations across South Sudan.
She said the program aims to enable CSOs to contribute to community development, social cohesion, accountability, and inclusive participation in governance processes.
“The SUCCESS Programme recognises the trend of communities that require strong local institutions. As such, the program has invested significantly in developing the organisational capacities of civil society organisations in South Sudan,” Milla said.