22/04/2025
Great job our youths
Building a Better Future – Mundri Youth Carve Success through Carpentry
In the quiet town of Mundri, South Sudan, where job opportunities are scarce and many families struggle to make ends meet, a group of determined young people decided to turn their hardship into hope—armed with little more than wood, tools, and a vision.
After completing secondary school, four young men found themselves unemployed, with few opportunities in sight. But instead of giving into frustration, they took inspiration from their surroundings. Mundri had an abundance of trees, a growing need for furniture, and a community eager to support local talent.
Pooling their savings and using borrowed tools, they started a small carpentry workshop under a mango tree. They named it “Mundri Woodworks.” Their first projects were basic: stools, benches, and wooden shelves. With each piece they built, their skills improved—and so did their reputation.
What started as a small group quickly grew. A local NGO noticed their efforts and provided them with training in advanced carpentry, safety, and business skills. With the new knowledge and better equipment, they expanded their work to include beds, office desks, doors, and even custom school furniture.
Within three months, the group transformed from a small roadside operation into a registered cooperative employing over 10 young people—including women trained in sanding, painting, and customer service. They now supply furniture to local schools, churches, and homes, keeping money circulating within the community in Mundri.
The income generated has helped members support their families, send siblings to school, and even re-invest in training other unemployed youth. Their work has sparked a revival of vocational interest in Mundri, inspiring many to learn different trades instead of waiting for office jobs.
By John Silvestor Timba - Mundri
