Upper Nile State Governor, Jacob Dollar Ruot, addresses the media at the State House (J-1) on Monday, March 2, 2026, after briefing President Salva Kiir on the security situation and the reintegration of returnees in the state. | Photo: Office of the President.

JUBA, South Sudan (Eye Radio) – Upper Nile State Governor Jacob Dollar Ruot has called on internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees to move out of camps and integrate into local communities, describing the move as essential for lasting peace in the state.

Speaking after a meeting with President Salva Kiir on Monday, the Governor emphasized that it is time for the displaced to rejoin the social fabric of the region rather than remaining in temporary settlements.

The Governor of Upper Nile State, Jacob Dollar, has called on internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees to move out of camps and integrate back into local communities to foster long-term stability.

During the meeting, President Kiir urged the people of Upper Nile to prioritize reconciliation as the only way to safeguard peace. The President emphasized that the state’s development depends entirely on how well different communities can live together.

“Peace begins with the willingness of communities to embrace one another. Unity is the foundation for stability and development in Upper Nile,” President Kiir stated. The President reassured the public to remain patient as the government works to normalize the situation across the state.

Governor Dollar reported that the situation in Upper Nile is currently calm, following his recent assessment visits to Renk and Manyo counties. He noted that while many people are returning from Sudan due to the conflict there, staying in displacement camps indefinitely is not the solution.

Instead, the Governor is pushing for “reintegration”—where people return to their original homes or join local neighborhoods rather than staying in isolated camps.

“The situation is calm, and our message to our people is clear: this is the time for reconciliation, reintegration, and dialogue,” Governor Dollar said.

To ensure this transition is successful, the Governor emphasized the need for inclusive talks involving all communities from Upper Nile, including those currently living in Juba. The goal is to address grievances and ensure that returnees are welcomed back into the social fabric of the state.

This engagement highlights the government’s shift toward practical peace-building, focusing on moving away from the “displaced” label and toward a unified, stable Upper Nile.