A barge carrying more than 3,000 returnees who spent more than two months waiting for transport in Kosti, Sudan arrived this morning in Juba.
William Chan, who chairs the South Sudan Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, welcomed the returnees at Juba river port, Bakhita Radio reported.He said the returnees would be treated to a traditional meal.
Mr. Chan urged the returnees to feel at home in their land of origin.
He extended the greetings of the government of the Republic of South Sudan
The returnees were transported to the way station on Juba-Yei Road to receive food rations and other aid.
Mr. Chan told returnees from other states that they would be transported to their final destinations.
He added that five children were born during the journey: four boys and one girl.
The returnees spent 18 days in the barge from Kosti to Juba.
A total of 3,500 returnees started from Kosti but some 500 were left at different destinations along the White Nile River.
Three returnees fell in the river and died.