Over 1.3 million Sudanese displaced by war have started returning home, even as fighting continues in parts of the country, according to the official statement distributed by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Many are heading back to Khartoum, Sennar, and Al Jazirah states, where the effects of more than two years of conflict are still visible. In addition, around 320,000 people have crossed back into Sudan since last year from neighboring countries, often to check conditions before settling.
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and IOM officials recently visited Khartoum and saw widespread damage and a severe lack of services. Thousands of displaced people, refugees, and asylum seekers remain cut off from help. Earlier this year, the The UN Development Programme (UNDP) looked at long-term support options. Despite these efforts, funding for humanitarian work inside Sudan and in border countries remains far too low.
IOM’s Regional Director, Othman Belbeisi, speaking from Port Sudan, said those returning are not just survivors. “They can help rebuild their communities and restart local economies—with the right support,” he said. He stressed that returning must be a choice made freely and with dignity, and that local partners must help create safe, hopeful conditions.
Though fighting has eased in some areas, dangers remain. Roads, power lines, schools, and hospitals lie in ruins. Many people have lost important documents, making it hard to access services. Explosive remnants, sexual violence, and child rights abuses are still risks. According to Mamadou Dian Balde, Regional Refugee Coordinator, these returns reflect hope but also fragile conditions and growing strain on host countries. He called for stronger international support.
Violence continues in places like Darfur and Kordofan, forcing people to flee daily. UNDP’s Abdallah Al Dardari warned that without quick action, returnees face ruined cities with no basic services. Restoring water, power, health care, jobs, and help for trauma victims is urgent. A political solution is needed so displaced Sudanese can safely rebuild their lives.
