The Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries was established in 2005 following the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). Initially operating as the Ministry of Animal Resources and Fisheries for Southern Sudan, its primary focus was rebuilding institutions and restoring services after decades of conflict.

Following the independence of South Sudan in July 2011, the Ministry became a national institution with broader responsibilities to develop and manage the country’s livestock and fisheries resources. Since then, the Ministry has continued to strengthen policies, regulatory frameworks, research, extension services, disease control systems, and investment initiatives aimed at unlocking the full potential of the livestock and fisheries sectors.

South Sudan is endowed with one of the largest livestock populations in Africa, including millions of cattle, goats, sheep, poultry, and other livestock species. The country also possesses vast fisheries resources within the River Nile, the Sudd Wetlands, lakes, rivers, and seasonal water bodies that support millions of people through fishing and related activities.