By Jurugo Emmanuel Ogasto
Refugee leaders in Uganda have raised concerns over the increasing number of South Sudanese refugees voluntarily returning to South Sudan despite the continued economic and humanitarian challenges facing the country.
According to refugee leaders in Nyumanzi Refugee Settlement, many young South Sudanese refugees aged between 25 and 30 years have recently abandoned life in the camps and opted to return to their homeland in search of better opportunities and reunion with family members.
Speaking to No. 1 Citizen Newspaper, Taban Peter, a block leader in the settlement, said the movement of refugees back to South Sudan has become common in recent months, especially among the youth.
“Young people are leaving the camps voluntarily and going back to South Sudan hoping to start a new life,” Taban explained. “However, some of them later return to the refugee settlement after facing serious difficulties back home.”
He noted that several returnees have reported harsh living conditions, lack of food, unemployment, and insecurity in different parts of South Sudan, forcing them to seek refuge once again in Uganda.
Taban advised refugees planning to repatriate to always follow the proper procedures and use the right channels to avoid complications during their movement.
“We encourage refugees to coordinate with humanitarian agencies and relevant authorities before returning home,” he said. “Using the right channels helps ensure their safety and proper documentation.”
One of the returnees, Tuac Majak, who recently came back to Nyumanzi Refugee Settlement after spending some time in South Sudan, said life in his homeland remains difficult for many ordinary citizens.
“There are many challenges in South Sudan,” Tuac said. “People are struggling to survive because there is little food, and life is very hard compared to the refugee settlement.”
He explained that although many refugees desire to return home and rebuild their lives, the current economic situation makes it difficult for families to sustain themselves.
Another refugee, Riang Job, also echoed similar concerns, saying conditions in South Sudan continue to worsen despite people’s strong emotional attachment to their homeland.
“Everyone wants to go back home because South Sudan is our country,” Riang said. “But life there has become too hard. Many people cannot afford basic needs.”
Humanitarian organisations have continued to encourage voluntary repatriation while emphasising that refugees should only return when conditions are safe, dignified, and sustainable.
Uganda remains one of the largest refugee-hosting countries in Africa, accommodating thousands of South Sudanese refugees who fled conflict, insecurity, and economic hardship over the years.
Refugee leaders are now calling on the government of South Sudan and international partners to improve living conditions, create employment opportunities, and strengthen peace and security to encourage sustainable return for displaced citizens.