Why South Sudan’s People Are Fleeing – and How Hope Lives On at PEACE International
South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, was born in 2011 with a wave of promise and hope. But in the years since, it has struggled with internal conflict, poverty, and insecurity—forces that have displaced millions and left many seeking refuge in neighboring countries like Uganda.
While the headlines often highlight the hardship, we believe it's just as important to tell the full story: one of resilience, courage, and the power of community—even in the face of overwhelming challenges.
A Complex History, A Fragile Present
South Sudan's roots are steeped in decades of conflict. Even after gaining independence from Sudan, long-standing ethnic tensions and power struggles erupted into civil war in 2013. The conflict has displaced over 4 million people, with more than 2 million fleeing to neighboring countries.
One of the most significant destinations for these refugees is Uganda. Unlike many countries, Uganda maintains a progressive refugee policy that allows displaced people to live, work, and move freely. It’s a rare beacon of hope.
But what’s pushing people out of South Sudan?
Insecurity and Violence: Persistent conflict between armed groups has made daily life dangerous in many parts of South Sudan. Civilians are often caught in the crossfire or subjected to attacks, looting, or recruitment by armed actors.
Widespread Poverty: Over 75% of South Sudan’s population lives below the poverty line. Many families struggle to access food, clean water, or basic health care.
Lack of Infrastructure: Years of war have left the country with limited roads, schools, and hospitals. Basic services are scarce, especially in rural areas.
Climate Challenges: Floods and droughts have devastated harvests, leading to rising hunger and food insecurity.
These realities create an environment where survival often means leaving everything behind.
Uganda: A Place of Refuge, and a Chance to Rebuild
Northern Uganda has become a place of sanctuary for over a million South Sudanese refugees. Despite its own development challenges, Uganda has welcomed refugees with remarkable openness.
The refugees are not just surviving—they are striving. Given land to farm and access to education and health care, many are rebuilding their lives from the ground up. Women are starting small businesses. Children are going to school. Communities are coming together to support one another in powerful ways.
At PEACE International, we work alongside these resilient individuals every day. We provide education, counseling, vocational training, pastoral resources and more. Our goal is simple but profound: to help people not only escape crisis but also find dignity and hope in their new lives.
Why It Matters
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the statistics—the number of people displaced, the scale of the poverty, the weight of the conflict. But behind every number is a story: of a mother protecting her children, of a student dreaming of becoming a doctor, of a farmer planting new seeds in foreign soil.
South Sudan’s situation is real, and it’s urgent. But it’s also not the end of the story. Hope lives on at PEACE International. Together, we can continue to offer support, healing, and opportunity—one family, one community at a time.