Policy Proposal

Veterans Dignity & Reintegration Program (VDRP)

Background: For over 30 years, thousands of South Sudanese fought under the SPLA for liberation. After independence in 2011—and renewed conflict in 2013—many veterans are now elderly, injured, and living without income, housing, or healthcare. The VDRP restores dignity through pensions, care, housing, and pathways back into community life.

The Problem

• No veteran pension or welfare scheme.
• Limited access to housing, healthcare, or rehabilitation.
• No structured skills training or civilian reintegration.
• Untreated trauma and injuries; visible homelessness in cities.

Solution: VDRP – National Framework

1) Pension & Social Protection

• Monthly stipend for registered SPLA veterans aged 55+.
• Disability benefits for injured veterans.

2) Healthcare & Rehabilitation

• Free access to public hospitals for registered veterans.
• Dedicated Veterans Medical & Rehabilitation Centre in Juba.

3) Housing Assistance

• Affordable veterans’ housing units in each state capital.
• Emergency shelters for homeless veterans in major towns.

4) Skills & Economic Reintegration

• Skills training (construction, agriculture, security services, small trades).
• Micro‑grants and mentorship for small businesses and farming.

5) Psychological Support

• Trauma counseling, peer support groups, and family reintegration workshops.

Implementation Plan

Phase 1 – Pilot (12 months)

• Identify & register veterans (biometric database).
• Begin pension payments to the most vulnerable 5,000 veterans (Juba, Bor, Malakal, Wau).
• Open a veterans’ clinic in Juba; set up shelter capacity.

Phase 2 – Scale (2–3 years)

• Roll out pensions nationwide; expand medical coverage.
• Construct housing in all 10 states; scale skills programs with partners.

Expected Outcomes

• Dignity restored; reduced homelessness and poverty among veterans.
• Long‑term healthcare and psychosocial support in place.
• National unity strengthened by honoring sacrifice.

SSYR’s Call to Action

SSYR urges the Government to adopt the VDRP, invites international partners to provide support, and calls on youth and civil society to stand with our veterans.