South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
The European Union has committed €11 million to support long-term recovery and resilience initiatives in South Sudan, addressing the displacement crisis caused by ongoing conflict in neighbouring Sudan.
These funds, allocated to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), will assist approximately 40,000 individuals, including Sudanese refugees, South Sudanese returnees, internally displaced persons, and host communities.
Since fighting erupted in Sudan in April 2023, more than 1.1 million people have fled into South Sudan, significantly straining already fragile infrastructure and services in key areas such as Juba and Upper Nile State.
The new initiative, “Strengthening Community Adaptability and Resilience for Displaced and Host Populations in South Sudan,” aims to go beyond immediate humanitarian aid by focusing on sustainable solutions. These include expanding economic opportunities, improving access to healthcare and education, and strengthening social cohesion—with particular focus on youth and women.
Speaking during the signing, the EU Acting Head of the Delegation in South Sudan, Lothar Jaschke, said the project aims to support the displaced and refugees in the country.
“I am proud to launch this initiative with UNHCR and IOM,” he said. “The Sudan crisis has worsened displacement in cities like Juba and Malakal. Supporting both displaced and resident communities without distinction is essential to strengthen social cohesion.”
Marie-Helene Verney, UNHCR’s Representative in South Sudan, emphasised the urgency and long-term vision of the support.
“South Sudan is at a crossroads, facing growing pressure from continued arrivals while grappling with its own deepening humanitarian crisis,” she said.
She stated that this support from the European Union is essential for promoting inclusion and resilience, providing a pathway to greater stability.
Vijaya Souri, IOM Chief of Mission in South Sudan, noted that the programme reflects a broader shift in strategy.
“This programme reflects IOM’s continued commitment to moving beyond crisis response by investing in long-term recovery, By aligning efforts with national priorities and building on existing foundations, we aim to ensure sustainable, community-driven solutions.” She said.
The project aligns with the UN Secretary-General’s Action Agenda on Internal Displacement and the Inter-Agency Standing Committee’s Framework on Durable Solutions. It builds on EU-supported efforts launched in 2023 and is set to run through 2026, with a strong focus on coordination with South Sudan’s government and local partners.
The EU, UNHCR, and IOM have described the initiative as a demonstration of their joint commitment to addressing displacement with durable, inclusive, and community-based responses.
