Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-02-06 20:43:55
The Archbishop of Gulu Diocese, John Baptist Odama, and South Sudan Ambassador to Uganda, Simon Deng, have called upon South Sudanese refugees in Uganda to consider voluntarily returning home to contribute to the development of their country. This call was made in a bid to promote social and economic growth within South Sudan, as well as to encourage the refugees to participate in the peace process and upcoming elections.
As of June 2023, Uganda was host to 1,561,634 refugees and asylum seekers, with the majority coming from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The United Nations High Commission on Refugees (UNHCR) reported that Uganda currently hosts 923,658 South Sudanese refugees, highlighting the significant impact of the ongoing conflict in the region.
During a gathering in Gulu, cultural and religious leaders came together to discuss the importance of supporting the peace process in South Sudan. Archbishop Odama emphasized the need for peace and stability in the region, stating that it is crucial for all East African countries to work towards ending conflict and promoting unity among their people. He expressed concern for the well-being of the refugees and their constant struggle for survival in the midst of ongoing tribal conflict.
Simon Deng echoed these sentiments, urging South Sudanese refugees living in urban areas to consider returning home to contribute to the economic growth of their country. He emphasized that peace has been established in South Sudan since the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement and encouraged the refugees to take part in the upcoming elections. Deng stressed the importance of their involvement in shaping the future of their nation through the democratic process and highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring a free and fair election.
Drawing on Uganda’s own history of instability and subsequent return to stability, Deng pointed out the impact of brain drain and the eventual return of exiled professionals to their home country. He emphasized the need for continued dialogue and collaboration between South Sudanese and Ugandans, acknowledging the hospitality and support extended to the refugees by the people and government of Uganda.
The overarching message from both Archbishop Odama and Ambassador Deng was for South Sudanese refugees to consider returning home and actively engaging in the peace process and upcoming elections. Their call to action was not only for the refugees to contribute to the economic and social development of their country but also to play a pivotal role in shaping its future through democratic participation.
This plea for voluntary repatriation aligns with the broader efforts to address the displacement crisis in the region and work towards a sustainable solution that prioritizes the well-being and agency of the refugees. It also underscores the importance of peace, stability, and inclusive governance in achieving sustainable development and prosperity for all citizens of South Sudan.
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