Constitutional Reset for Elections: President Salva Kiir assented to Constitutional Amendment No. 13, removing the requirement that a permanent constitution and the national census be completed before December 22, 2026 elections—aimed at clearing legal obstacles, though funding and security still loom. Election Funding Pressure: The African Union urged donors to close a roughly $250 million election funding gap, warning of “significant” shortfalls as the NEC and other bodies struggle to prepare. Peace Process Push: The AU Peace and Security Council called for South Sudan’s leaders to resume direct political dialogue without preconditions, fast-track the Hybrid Court and Truth, Reconciliation and Healing Commission, and complete unified forces to protect the ceasefire. Human Rights Oversight: The UN Commission on Human Rights will make its 14th visit to South Sudan from Sept. 7–10 to assess rights risks amid renewed conflict and the shrinking space for the peace process. Jonglei Airstrip Rehab: IOM and the government validated designs to rehabilitate airstrips in Jonglei and Greater Pibor to improve access for communities and humanitarian operations. Sports Disruption: The Bright Stars’ planned Juba victory celebration was cancelled, with no new date announced. Regional Climate Threat: UNICEF warned El Niño could put 162 million children across eastern and southern Africa at risk, including South Sudan, where drought, heat and flooding could worsen malnutrition and disease.