In South Sudan, more than half of the country’s refugee population is currently residing in Maban County, with another 135,000 refugees living in the Ruweng Administrative Area. These regions have been critical in providing shelter and support to those fleeing violence and instability.

However, a notable shift is occurring in the patterns of refugee settlement. A growing number of newly arrived refugees are choosing to settle in urban areas, rather than in the established refugee camps and rural settlements. This trend is presenting both opportunities and challenges for integration within local economies and communities.

Urban centers in South Sudan are now seeing increased pressure as refugees seek employment, housing, and access to essential services. While this migration could potentially bolster the workforce in cities, it also raises concerns about overburdening local infrastructure and social services.

The growing refugee population in urban areas highlights the need for targeted policies to support their integration, ensuring access to livelihoods and promoting peaceful coexistence with host communities. Local governments and humanitarian organizations are being called upon to address these challenges and create sustainable solutions that benefit both refugees and the local population.

As South Sudan continues to face complex humanitarian challenges, the shift towards urban settlement underscores the need for innovative approaches to refugee support and community integration.