The European Union and the International Organization for Migration on Friday launched a €12 million program aimed at helping displaced people rebuild their lives and promoting long-term recovery in South Sudan.
The new initiative, called Catalyzing Durable Solutions, will run for 30 months in displacement-affected areas, including Yei River County and Rubkona County, and support national housing, land, and property systems.
Pelle Enarsson, head of the EU Delegation in South Sudan, said the program is a major step in addressing the needs of more than four million people affected by displacement.
“The 12-million-euro initiative represents a significant additional investment by the EU in supporting displaced communities and fostering sustainable development,” he said.
Enarsson said the program will focus on urban centers including Yei, Bentiu, and Rubkona, with investments in planning, infrastructure, and climate resilience. He stressed that conflict remains the main driver of displacement and warned that development depends on peace.
“Without peace, there can be no durable solutions. Development can only take place when peace and stability are maintained,” he said, urging all parties to end violence, including in Jonglei state.
Vijaya Souri, IOM’s representative in South Sudan, said the program reflects a commitment to long-term recovery. She noted that while communities have shown resilience, more sustained support is needed.
“South Sudan continues to face complex displacement dynamics driven by conflict, climate shocks, and economic fragility… but resilience alone is not enough,” she said.
Souri said the program will prioritize land rights, urban planning, and livelihoods to prevent repeated displacement and help families rebuild safely. Activities in Yei River County and Rubkona County will strengthen land governance, climate-informed planning, and inclusive economic opportunities.
Emmanuel Taban Seme, commissioner of Yei River County, welcomed the initiative, saying residents hope for tangible improvements.
“If there are people who will be happy, it will be the people of Yei, because we are eager to see real changes,” he said. He added that the program will support urban planning, reintegration of displaced people, and agricultural livelihoods.
“I believe we can also achieve peace through development,” Seme said, noting that support for farming and cooperatives will help empower vulnerable groups, including single mothers. He expressed confidence that many beneficiaries will be self-sustaining by the end of the 30-month program.