JUBA, Feb. 5 (Xinhua) -- The UN migration agency on Tuesday appealed for 782 million pounds (122 million U.S. dollars) to help nearly 1 million people displaced by South Sudan's five-year-old conflict.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said in a statement that the funds would be used to support displaced persons and over 80 aid agencies throughout 2019 in areas of health, migration management, psycho-social support, water and sanitation.

"We need to support the people of South Sudan, as the country pursues a peaceful and stable future," said Jean-Philippe Chauzy, IOM South Sudan Chief of Mission.

"IOM has been implementing transition and recovery projects in South Sudan since the founding of the State in 2011. IOM is widely recognized as a trusted and reliable partner," Chauzy said.

South Sudan descended into conflict in late 2013, leaving more than 4 million people displaced. Almost 2 million are displaced internally.

The UN agency said the new peace deal signed in September 2018 provides hope for peace and cautious optimism, adding that areas of stability and return are emerging, indicating there may soon be a broader return of displaced communities.

"Although some people have decided to return home, or have indicated that they will do so soon, many are still living in displacement sites," Chauzy said.

"They will not be able to return in 2019. So, despite the signing of the revitalized peace agreement, conflict related displacement continues, albeit on a smaller scale than in the past," Chauzy said.

"As the road to sustained peace is being paved, many familiar challenges persist," he added.