Author(s)

Abstract

In September 2024, 29,295 South Sudanese individuals arrived in South Sudan, as recorded by UNHCR border monitoring. According to UNHCR’s new methodology, UNHCR estimates that 23,713 (81%) of these arrivals were returnees, while 5,541 (19%) were pendular movements, and 41 individuals were transiting through South Sudan to other countries. The proportion of returnees varied significantly, from 88% of those returning from Sudan to 35% of those arriving from Kenya. The reasons for return also varied: many from Sudan were fleeing insecurity and lack of services, while those from Ethiopia were driven by food insecurity and a lack of services. For individuals returning from Kenya, Uganda, DRC, and CAR, the motivation to return permanently to their country of origin was a strong pull factor. Short-term visitors mainly travel for family and economic reasons.