Bishop Stephen Nyodho Ador of the Catholic Diocese of Malakal has called for renewed peace and solidarity across South Sudan as his diocese hosts this year’s Bishops’ Conference, describing the gathering as a “visit of solidarity” and a powerful message of hope for the people of Upper Nile State.
“Despite the destruction, we can still bring Upper Nile to a better place to live,” Bishop Nyodho said. “This conference shows that we are not forgotten. The Church stands with us in our journey toward healing and rebuilding.”
He expressed concern that many people displaced in Nasir and Ulang counties continue to face hardship because of ongoing conflict.
“We know what has happened in Nasir and Ulang—our people are suffering. Some are still in refugee camps in Gambella, some have gone as far as Kakuma and Uganda,” he said. “It is our prayer that everyone will one day return home. Together, we can rebuild South Sudan and our state.”
The bishop also highlighted the dire situation of displaced families arriving in Renk from Khartoum, particularly women and children who have been separated from loved ones.
“The Diocese of Malakal has been on the front line of this crisis. Our parish in Renk has received thousands of people arriving in distress, sharing heartbreaking stories—especially women who have been forced to leave their children behind,” he said. “We call on the authorities of both Sudan and South Sudan to address this humanitarian tragedy urgently.”
Bishop Nyodho offered a heartfelt apology for the suffering caused by years of conflict in Upper Nile and beyond.
“We are truly sorry for what has taken place in our state and in other regions the destruction of war, the loss of lives, and the destruction of property. At the end of the day, there is nothing better than peace,” he said.
He encouraged South Sudanese communities to look toward the future with renewed faith and determination.
“We can forget the pain of the past if we have the vision to look forward. The future is bright,” Bishop Nyodho said. “We, the people of South Sudan, were not brought together by mistake. God united us, and His plan for us is peace not division.”
