Writer: Mogga Charles Guya
The government’s repatriation of approximately 20,000 South Sudanese from Egypt is an important step toward restoring hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging to our fellow citizens who have lived away from home.
However, repatriation must go beyond bringing our people across the border. We must ensure that their return is followed by a dignified and sustainable reintegration into their communities and places of origin.
Many of our returning brothers and sisters may face the challenge of a high cost of living, unemployment, limited access to basic services, and difficulties rebuilding their livelihoods. The government, together with humanitarian partners, should therefore establish practical reintegration programs that enable returnees to participate in agriculture, livestock, small businesses, vocational training, and other sustainable livelihood activities.
Equally important is their psychosocial well-being. People who have spent years in displacement and unfamiliar environments may carry emotional wounds, trauma, loss, and uncertainty. We call upon the government and humanitarian partners to establish accessible psychosocial support and community-based healing programs to help returnees recover, rebuild their confidence, and reconnect with their communities.
We must also strengthen peace and security so that those returning home do not find themselves displaced again. A safe home is the foundation of a dignified return.
Let us therefore embrace our returning citizens—not as strangers, but as sons and daughters of South Sudan. Let communities open their doors, let leaders provide support, and let the government create an environment where every returnee can rebuild a productive and dignified life.
Above all, let us embrace peace, strengthen security, rebuild our communities, and create a South Sudan where our people can confidently return home and live in dignity.
A call to our people: Come home.
A call to our leaders: Make home safe.
A call to all South Sudanese: Let us build a peaceful nation together.
About the author:
Hon. Mogga Charles Guya
Secretary for Foreign Affairs, SSNMC
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