Through our IDEAS Solutions Fund, IDEAS For Us supported Seeding Mercy, a nonprofit founded by South Sudanese leader Aken Tong. South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, faces food insecurity, drought, and the lingering effects of civil conflict. Instead of relying on short-term aid, Tong launched Seeding Mercy to provide families with the education and tools to grow diverse, organic crops that nourish communities and protect the environment.

This approach has already empowered over 2,000 families and 500 entrepreneurs across three regions of South Sudan, resulting in significant increases in crop yields and greater food security for more than 5,000 people. Beyond farming, Seeding Mercy invests in youth through its ART!PEACE!! program, which fosters creativity, healing, and leadership. By planting both literal and figurative seeds, this project is helping communities in South Sudan build resilience, self-sufficiency, and hope for generations to come.