AGP Executive Report

Food Security & Displacement: South Sudan Mennonite Church says conflict in Jonglei and Upper Nile, floods and sharply reduced harvests have driven 2.6 million people from their homes, with another 2.4 million Sudanese refugees adding pressure; the hunger crisis is hitting women and children hardest, with 7.8 million people facing high food insecurity and millions of under-fives and pregnant/breastfeeding women at risk of acute malnutrition. Health Crisis: WHO chief Tedros warns DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak is “far from being under control,” with over 2,300 deaths and nearly 5,000 cases, as the epidemic spreads faster than previous outbreaks and risks crossing borders including toward South Sudan. Telecom Costs: South Sudan’s National Communication Authority tariff adjustment took effect at midnight Aug 17, raising call and data charges in the third and final phase, as operators cite inflation, pound depreciation and limited foreign currency. Women’s Economic Resilience: IGAD-backed BWERSP project launched in Eastern Equatoria to boost women’s access to land and economic opportunities and increase their role in peace and security. Diplomacy & Cash Strain: Reports say South Sudan’s embassy in Nairobi remains closed/operating irregularly amid rent and power issues, while Germany accredits a new ambassador pledging support for peace and reforms. Economy: Economic Reform Committee reports increased cash revenue collection after streamlining at Nimule border.

Sports: South Sudan shocked Brazil 63-61 in overtime and New Zealand thrashed Argentina 57-35 in the opening games of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament in Guadalajara, with Adut Bulgak starring for South Sudan. Diplomacy & Peace: President Salva Kiir met Sudan’s Darfur governor General Mini Arko Minnawi in Juba to push renewed dialogue for peace, with a Sudanese committee expected to review the Juba Peace Agreement. Foreign Relations: Germany accredited new ambassador Sebastian Brökelmann, pledging support for R-ARCSS implementation and reforms in security, justice and public finance. Consular Services: A South Sudan policy analyst says the Nairobi embassy stayed locked on Monday, while the Kampala mission is fully operational, raising calls for clarity on a “technical shutdown.” Economy & Prices: Juba residents and traders at Kubri Haboba Market report rising prices and shrinking customers, blaming exchange-rate pressure, taxes and transport costs along the Juba–Nimule corridor. Health: DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak hit a new grim milestone, killing 2,325 people and reaching 4,945 confirmed cases, with a 46% fatality rate and fears it’s outpacing the response. Energy & Growth: A new electrification project in Nimule is expected to boost business and improve digital services like e-tax and electronic payments.

Elections & Governance: Aweil North lawmaker Majang Ngor Kuany says he’ll back President Salva Kiir only if salary arrears are cleared before December 2026 polls, warning “there is no more Oyee” without pay. Local Economy & Prices: In Juba, families and traders at Kubri Haboba Market report rising costs are squeezing budgets, with calls for action on the exchange rate, taxes, and transport charges along the Juba–Nimule import corridor. Energy Access: Nimule Electrification Project launched in Eastern Equatoria, connecting 400+ customers through SSEC and Conex Energy, with officials linking reliable power to better services and livelihoods. Regional Trade & Fuel: Kenya’s Port of Mombasa received MT Nord Harmony with about 20,900 tonnes of petroleum products, underscoring its role as an East Africa energy gateway. Health Watch: DRC’s Ebola outbreak has become the country’s deadliest on record, with deaths surpassing 2,300 and the fatality rate rising sharply. Sports: Al Ghazala Wau won South Sudan’s Super Cup in Juba after a match marred by violence and gunfire.

Elections & Pay: An MP told President Kiir ahead of the 2026 vote, “Without salary, no SPLM Oyee,” as lawmakers and officials warn unpaid wages could fuel political anger. Women in Peacebuilding: UN Women and UNESCO launched a three-year push to boost women’s leadership and peacebuilding roles in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el Ghazal, targeting about 2,100 beneficiaries. Border Crisis: Greater Yei chiefs urged Kiir to urgently intervene in Kajo-Keji border clashes with Uganda after displaced families reported dire shortages of food and shelter. Party Politics: SPLM Women’s League endorsed Kiir as its sole presidential candidate for the 22 December elections and adopted a constitution for the women’s wing. Energy Access: Nimule Electrification Project launched in Eastern Equatoria, with 400 customers connected as SSEC and Conex Energy expand power for services and livelihoods. Governance & Economy: Kiir’s reshuffle at the central bank and Interior Ministry leadership changes drew fresh scrutiny over a “revolving door” style of governance. Regional Shock: The U.S. ended Temporary Protected Status for South Sudan and Somalia, raising deportation risks for affected migrants. Sports: Al Ghazala Wau won the national Super Cup in Juba, but the match was marred by violence and gunfire. Health Watch: WHO says DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak is on track to become the deadliest on record, with fears it could spread beyond the region.

US Immigration Policy: The U.S. has terminated Temporary Protected Status for Somalia and South Sudan, leaving thousands facing new uncertainty and possible deportation after USCIS updates this week. Regional Governance & Accountability: A sharp debate is growing over “politics of decrees” in Juba, with critics saying laws and budgets are being driven by orders rather than institutions. Conflict & Civilian Harm: Greater Yei chiefs urged President Kiir to intervene in Kajo-Keji border clashes with Uganda, saying displaced families are in dire conditions with little food or shelter. Women, Youth & Peacebuilding: UN Women and UNESCO launched a three-year initiative to boost women’s participation in peacebuilding and decision-making in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el Ghazal. Energy & Local Development: Nimule Electrification Project launched in Eastern Equatoria, connecting 400 customers and calling for better roads to support trade. Sports & Public Life: Al Ghazala Wau won the national Super Cup in Juba, but the match was marred by violence and gunfire. Economy & Institutions: South Sudan’s leadership reshuffle at the central bank is being read as a familiar cycle of sackings and reappointments amid inflation pressures.

Ebola Watch: WHO says DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak is moving faster than any before and could become the deadliest on record, as conflict and weak health response leave health teams “playing catch-up.” Border Crisis: Greater Yei chiefs urge President Kiir to urgently intervene in worsening clashes along the Kajo-Keji border with Uganda, where displaced families report dire shortages of food and shelter. Women & Peacebuilding: UN Women and UNESCO launch a three-year push to boost women’s participation in peacebuilding and decision-making in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el Ghazal. Politics & Elections: SPLM Women’s League endorses Salva Kiir as its sole presidential candidate for the 22 December elections, while an op-ed warns South Sudan faces a dangerous election dilemma. Governance & Economy: A proposal calls for a South Sudan National Development Implementation Commission to reduce fragmented project delivery. Energy & Growth: Nimule electrification launches with 400+ customers connected, aiming to expand reliable power for services and business. Sports: Juba National Stadium will host Egypt vs South Sudan in AFCON 2027 qualifiers. Media Regulation: Media houses ask for dialogue with the Media Authority over one-month licence renewal deadlines and higher fees.

Violence and displacement: Fighting in South Sudan’s Jonglei has left more families shattered, with reports of children killed and wounded in crossfire, including at Juba Military Hospital. Regional security: A US report says China is being courted to host a military base in Kenya, as China dismisses the claim and accuses Washington of reviving Cold War fears. Health crisis: Ethiopia’s resurgent malaria is exposing gaps in early diagnosis and access to care, with cases in refugee settings like Gambella’s Kule Camp. Public health watch: DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak has spread to a sixth province, Bas-Uele, raising fears it could surpass the deadliest epidemic on record; WHO warns containment is still “catch-up.” Media and governance: South Sudan’s Media Authority has set a one-month deadline for renewal of expired media licences, citing stations operating without valid permits, while media houses complain about rising fees. Education and diplomacy: China’s embassy awarded scholarships to 36 University of Juba students and donated books. Sports: Juba National Stadium will host Egypt vs South Sudan in AFCON 2027 qualifiers in September. Politics and elections: An analysis warns the 2018 peace deal’s transitional period ends in February 2027, with elections due December 22, 2026, but key prerequisites remain unfinished.

Scholarships & Youth: China’s embassy in South Sudan awarded scholarships to 36 University of Juba students, saying the program has now backed more than 100 learners and donated books to support research. Sports & National Pride: Juba National Stadium will host Egypt vs South Sudan in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers in September, with Egypt starting training camp on Sept. 17. Media Regulation: South Sudanese media houses are asking for dialogue with the Media Authority after a one-month deadline to renew expired operating licences, citing higher fees and tough economic conditions. Police & Misinformation: The National Police Service dismissed social media claims that recently retired senior officers were reinstated, calling the reports false. Refugees & Funding Pressure: Uganda’s relief minister urged refugees to consider voluntary return as humanitarian funding declines, noting Uganda hosts over 1.25 million refugees, many from South Sudan. Diplomacy & Cash Crunch: South Sudan’s embassy in Kenya said it was not closed, blaming a temporary technical issue linked to a cash crunch and earlier rent arrears reports. Health & Accountability: WHO warned that attacks on healthcare continue with no one held to account, including incidents reported in South Sudan.

South Sudan–Sudan Diplomacy: South Sudan and Sudan signed a memorandum to strengthen bilateral cooperation, with both sides agreeing to resume and reactivate joint political, security and economic mechanisms along their long border after disruption from Sudan’s conflict. UN Peace & Security: UNMISS condemned armed group attacks in Warrap that killed more than 60 civilians, injured at least 50, and involved abductions and sexual violence, urging investigations and dialogue to prevent retaliatory cycles. Regional Pressure for Peace: Eight countries urged renewed peace efforts at the UN Security Council, warning that setbacks in implementing the Revitalized Peace Agreement could push South Sudan back toward civil war, and highlighting ongoing barriers for women in politics and decision-making. Elections & Youth in Politics: SIHA Network Juba launched a two-day forum to boost young women and youth participation in peacebuilding and governance, while youths in Mundri East marked International Youth Day calling for an end to violence and displacement. Governance & Service Delivery: South Sudan’s Interior Minister Aleu Ayieny Aleu accused politicians in Warrap of smuggling firearms that fuel communal violence, and the Transport Minister tabled a new transport policy framework in parliament. Embassy Row in Nairobi: South Sudan’s embassy in Nairobi denied closure over rent arrears, saying consular services were disrupted by a localized power outage and that the mission remains operational. Humanitarian Skills: A TVET center was launched at Wed-wail refugee settlement to train both refugees and host communities in trades like masonry, carpentry, bakery and cosmetics.

EU-backed conservation: EU Ambassador Pelle Enarsson told Juba’s Friends of Conservation meeting that secure land rights and rule-of-law governance of wildlife and natural resources are key to peace and stability. Diplomacy & security: South Sudan and Sudan signed a memorandum to restart and strengthen joint political, security and economic cooperation along their long border, after disruption from Sudan’s war. UN warns on violence: UNMISS condemned armed group attacks in Warrap that killed 60+ civilians, calling them deliberate targeting of non-combatants and urging investigations and justice. Peace process pressure: Eight countries urged renewed peace efforts at the UN Security Council, warning setbacks to the Revitalized Peace Agreement could push South Sudan back toward civil war. Elections & party politics: SPLM launched membership registration and renewal in Western Equatoria ahead of December 2026 elections, while SIHA held a forum to boost youth and women’s participation in peacebuilding and governance. Local governance & services: Transport Minister Rizik Zachariah tabled a transport policy framework in parliament, and the South Sudan embassy in Nairobi denied it was closed, saying a power outage disrupted some services. Public health scare: WHO warned Congo’s Ebola outbreak is on track to surpass the deadliest in history, with the virus believed to have started months earlier.

UN Security Council Push for Peace: Eight countries urged renewed peace efforts in South Sudan, warning that setbacks to the Revitalized Peace Agreement could drag the country back toward civil war, with special concern over the impact on women and girls. Warrap Civilian Deaths: UNMISS condemned armed group attacks in Warrap that killed more than 60 civilians and injured at least 50, calling it a deliberate assault on non-combatants and warning it may amount to war crimes. Diplomacy at the UN: China’s UN envoy told the Security Council that stability and civilian protection remain key as South Sudan heads toward elections. Education in Yei: Vice President James Wani Igga laid the foundation stone for the University of Yei, with local leaders urging real investment in buildings and qualified lecturers. Embassy Disruption in Nairobi: South Sudan’s embassy in Nairobi shut over at least four months of unpaid rent, leaving citizens turned away from consular services. Regional Security Talks: South Sudan and Sudan resumed high-level political and security talks in Juba to address border security and outstanding issues. Health Crisis Spillover: WHO warned Congo’s Ebola outbreak is on track to surpass the deadliest in history, with the fast spread near borders including South Sudan raising fears for the region.

Ebola Watch: WHO says DR Congo’s fast-moving Ebola outbreak is on track to surpass the deadliest in history, with over 2,000 deaths and sequencing showing it began months earlier than first declared; WHO also reports talks to speed a Phase 3 trial for the Bundibugyo strain, including possible use of Merck’s Ervebo. South Sudan Diplomacy: South Sudan’s embassy in Nairobi has been shut over reported rent arrears, disrupting consular services for South Sudanese residents until Juba intervenes. Education & Peace in Yei: VP James Wani Igga laid the foundation stone for the University of Yei, while also urging armed groups to stop fighting and allow development in the county. Governance & Elections: SPLM Women League holds a constitutional conference in Juba as leaders push for political participation ahead of the 2026 elections, amid warnings that insecurity and civic restrictions could derail credible polls. Economy: South Sudan Revenue Authority gets praise for improved revenue collection, and Co-op Bank reports strong half-year profit growth in Kenya.

Juba–Khartoum Security Talks: South Sudan and Sudan have resumed their Joint Political and Security Mechanism meeting in Juba after several years, with both sides saying cooperation is key to stability. Disability Inclusion: Western Equatoria’s disability union is demanding equal opportunities and stronger government support, calling for better access to education, healthcare, jobs, and leadership. Ebola Crisis in Congo: DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surpassed 2,000 deaths, with 4,381 confirmed cases and the WHO warning the virus is moving faster than response efforts. Elections Under Pressure: A new debate is growing over whether South Sudan should rush December elections, with critics warning that constitutional changes could undermine credible polls. U.S. Visa Shift for South Sudan: The U.S. has moved routine nonimmigrant visa services for South Sudan to Kampala, Uganda, ending routine processing in Juba. Leadership Loss: Former South Sudan finance minister Kosti Manibe Ngai has died in Nairobi at 78. Regional Youth Jobs and Insecurity: African youth at a Kampala summit linked insecurity and unemployment to stalled growth and called for peace-building and job pathways.

Elections and Security: UNMISS says deadly attacks in Tonj North, Lakes State, have triggered displacement and looting, and it is sending long-duration patrols to assess abuses and deter revenge violence. Public Health Crisis: Congo’s Ebola outbreak has now killed more than 2,000 people, with 4,381 confirmed cases and deaths rising faster than in the 2014–16 West Africa outbreak as conflict, bad roads, and unpaid health workers slow response. Diplomacy and Travel: The U.S. has shifted routine nonimmigrant visa services for South Sudan to Kampala, ending routine processing in Juba and requiring applicants to travel to Uganda. Political Leadership: Former South Sudan finance minister Kosti Manibe Ngai has died in Nairobi after a long illness. Local Politics: Twic residents in Warrap State protest plans to share an electoral constituency with Abyei ahead of December 2026 elections. Humanitarian Access: UN warns 36 humanitarian workers were killed in South Sudan this year, with hundreds of access incidents as hunger and displacement deepen. Sports: South Sudan is listed among teams in the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament 2026 in Mexico.

Ebola Crisis in Congo: WHO says DR Congo’s fastest-growing Ebola outbreak began in February—months before the May declaration—after genetic sequencing showed early cases were misdiagnosed as malaria and typhoid. Confirmed cases have reached about 4,200 with over 1,900 deaths, as responders face strikes by unpaid health workers, rebel threats, misinformation, and shortages of protective gear while displaced communities struggle to wash hands. Humanitarian Access Under Fire: UNMISS reports 36 humanitarian workers killed in South Sudan this year and 391 access incidents, with violence displacing over 420,000 people in six months and worsening food insecurity, disease risks, and funding gaps. Elections and Constitutional Timing: An opinion piece warns South Sudan should not sacrifice credible December elections for a constitutional amendment, arguing key transitional benchmarks—like constitution-making, census, security reforms, civic space, and dispute resolution—are still incomplete. Regional Diplomacy: A South Sudan analyst urges Juba to treat Canada’s temporary suspension of routine consular services as a concern and push for dialogue to preserve long-standing support. Finance Leadership Loss: Former finance minister Kosti Manibe dies in Nairobi after a long illness. Digital Payments: The Bank of South Sudan begins a five-day workshop to validate a National Payment System Bill to regulate the fast-growing digital payments sector. Energy Talks: A high-level South Sudan delegation meets Kenya to discuss rising energy prices and cooperation. Visa Change for South Sudanese: The U.S. ends routine visa services in Juba for nonimmigrant applicants, shifting them to Kampala for processing. Whistle-blower Freed: A South Sudan whistle-blower abducted in Nairobi is released after nearly two months in detention in Juba.

Diplomacy & Appointments: President Salva Kiir elevated presidential speechwriter Akol Nyok Akol Dok to ambassadorial rank in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, marking a major career jump for one of South Sudan’s young policy and communications figures. Humanitarian Crisis: The UN says 36 humanitarian workers have been killed in South Sudan this year, alongside 391 access incidents, as violence continues to displace hundreds of thousands and strain aid delivery. Security & Elections: South Sudan church leaders warn that holding December 2026 elections without fixing insecurity, political divisions, and legal gaps could worsen violence and fragmentation. Digital Payments: The Bank of South Sudan launched a five-day workshop to validate the National Payment System Bill, 2025, aiming to strengthen regulation of mobile and electronic payments. Energy Costs: A high-level South Sudan delegation is in Kenya for talks on rising energy prices and cooperation in the energy sector. Rule of Law: A South Sudan whistle-blower abducted in Nairobi was released after nearly two months in detention, with his family saying he was found to have no wrongdoing. Public Health: WHO says DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak began in February—months before declaration—now at 4,200 cases and over 1,900 deaths, with responders “chasing” a virus ahead of efforts.