In Bor, the Jonglei state capital, they celebrated in the IDP camp with a Christmas mass and holiday parties.

“We celebrated Christmas celebrations within the UN camp here,” said William Tut, one of the displaced. “It was a nice celebration, but we are urging the parties to the conflict to expedite a peace agreement in South Sudan. Peace is very important in the country.”

In Malakal, the Upper Nile state capital that has been the scene of repeated battles, relative peace meant people could leave the camp there to hold holiday parties at their homes. Yahya Sabino, the chairperson of the Chamber of Commerce, said markets were open and people were shopping.

His Christmas appeal was the same as Tut’s: peace.

“I want to send a very simple message to my people in South Sudan that let us work together for social peace and a non-violent society in South Sudan,” he said. “People have to forgive each other so that we restore stability in the country.”