AGP Executive Report

Ebola Preparedness: South Sudan is stepping up readiness as the DRC’s fast-growing Ebola outbreak spreads north, with WHO warning the risk of importation remains high due to cross-border movement and trade with DRC and Uganda. Food Security: USDA will provide up to $235 million via Catholic Relief Services for emergency food and nutrition support in Sudan and Ethiopia, delivering over 110,000 metric tons of U.S. commodities. Public Health & Testing: The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) has begun training lab staff on HPLC technology to improve food safety testing and detect harmful contaminants like aflatoxins. Governance & Media: President Salva Kiir has directly appointed a new SSBC board, breaking the law, drawing fresh criticism over rule-of-law concerns. Banking Labor Dispute: A civil society coalition says the Bank of South Sudan’s dissolution of the workers’ union is unlawful, as staff resume strike action over unpaid benefits. Independence & Peace Calls: Catholic bishops renewed appeals for peace, dialogue, and reconciliation as South Sudan marks 15 years since independence.

Central Bank & Labour Rights: A South Sudan civil society coalition says the Bank of South Sudan’s move to dissolve workers’ union leadership is unlawful, urging Governor Johnny Ohisa Damian to resolve the dispute through dialogue. Independence & Peace Push: As South Sudan marks 15 years since independence, bishops and civil society are calling for peace, dialogue, and reconciliation amid renewed concerns about election readiness and political detainees. Governance & Media Law: President Salva Kiir reportedly dissolved and replaced the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation board, with critics saying the action breaks the law. Roads & Revenue: The South Sudan Revenue Authority calls for urgent rehabilitation of the Juba–Nimule highway to speed cargo, cut costs, and boost government income. Drought Preparedness: WFP and the government launch the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan, delivering cash transfers and early warning support to over 65,000 people in Budi and Kapoeta North. Local Security: Yei authorities investigate the killing of three civilians along the Yei–Maridi road, with security agencies hunting for the attackers. Wildlife Enforcement: Wildlife authorities in Juba seize two illegally kept warthogs and warn citizens against keeping wild animals at home without authorization. Ebola Watch (Regional): South Sudan is stepping up preparedness as Ebola spreads in the DRC, raising fears of cross-border importation.

Independence & Peace Push: South Sudan marked 15 years since independence with renewed calls for peace and reconciliation, as Catholic bishops urged communities to reject violence and choose dialogue amid ongoing insecurity. Ebola Preparedness: The DRC Ebola outbreak has spread to two more provinces, Haut-Uele and Tshopo, with confirmed cases rising to 1,926 and deaths to 702, prompting WHO-linked warnings that South Sudan faces high risk of importation through cross-border movement. Health Response Disruption: In the DRC, hospital staff treating Ebola patients in Ituri went on strike over unpaid wages, threatening response capacity as the outbreak accelerates. Regional Travel & Trade Pressure: The U.S. suspended visa operations in Juba, Kinshasa, and Kampala due to the Ebola outbreak, while South Sudan’s SSRA chief called for urgent rehabilitation of the Juba–Nimule highway to speed cargo and boost revenue. Local Safety: Yei authorities launched investigations into the killing of three civilians along the Yei–Maridi road on Independence Day. Economy & Services: WFP and the government activated South Sudan’s first drought anticipatory action plan, delivering cash transfers and early warning support to over 65,000 people in Budi and Kapoeta North. Governance & Media: Upper Nile State says preparations are underway to reopen Malakal’s government radio station by November after a 2013 shutdown. Labor & Finance: Bank of South Sudan dissolved its workers’ trade union, citing alleged labor procedure violations and a staff sit-in, a move workers dispute.

Peace & Elections: A new AU envoy visit to Juba spotlights the standoff over elections, with detainees still held and dialogue conditions still unmet. Labor & Governance: The Bank of South Sudan dissolved its workers’ union after a staff sit-in, triggering pushback from employees. Elections & Party Politics: Thirty-five NUDF members defect to the USSP in Western Bahr el Ghazal, reshaping local political balances ahead of December 2026 polls. Security & Accountability: South Sudan Revenue Authority customs officials at Nimule warned clearing agents against revenue fraud and falsified declarations. Infrastructure & Revenue: SSRA calls for urgent rehabilitation of the Juba–Nimule highway to speed cargo and boost tax collection. Local Services: Juba City Council consults hotels over proposed waste collection fee hikes. Health Watch: Congo’s Ebola outbreak spreads to Haut-Uele and Tshopo, raising confirmed cases and deaths.

Border Revenue Watch: At Nimule, South Sudan Revenue Authority customs officials warned clearing agents against under-declaration and document forgery, saying licenses could be withdrawn. Roads & Trade: SSRA also urged urgent rehabilitation of the Juba–Nimule highway after inspecting customs operations, arguing faster truck movement means more tax revenue. City Services: Juba City Council has started consultations with hotels and caterers over proposed solid-waste fee changes, after reported charge revisions that could raise costs for businesses. Elections & Politics: The SPLM says it received a donation of SSP 5 billion from Digital Dots Interior Designing Ltd as it steps up preparations for December 2026 elections. Oil Finance: South Sudan regained limited access to advance crude financing after reaching an agreement with BB Energy to partially settle a London court dispute. Regional Energy: Ethiopia and Kenya signed a new electricity supply deal to boost cross-border power trade. Health & Climate: WFP launched South Sudan’s first drought anticipatory action in Eastern Equatoria, targeting over 65,000 people with early warnings and cash support. Public Life: Ex-Jonglei information minister Isaac Ajiba Ochang was laid to rest in Juba.

Drought Preparedness: WFP and the South Sudan government have launched the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan in Eastern Equatoria, targeting Budi and Kapoeta North to protect 65,000+ people with cash support and early warning messages. Elections & Governance: The NEC chair, Prof. Abednego Akok, has proposed temporary constituency adjustments ahead of the 22 December 2026 polls, including a standalone Abyei constituency and shared arrangements for other disputed areas. Economy & Currency: A senior economic advisor warns the South Sudanese pound could hit 1 million per $100 by year-end if urgent measures aren’t taken, after the black-market rate reportedly climbed to about 700,000 per $100. Infrastructure for Revenue: The South Sudan Revenue Authority is pushing urgent rehabilitation of the Juba–Nimule highway, saying bad road conditions delay trade and tax payments. Local Services: Juba City Council has started consultations with hotels and catering businesses on proposed solid waste fee changes, after reported revisions for small and large businesses. Oil Financing: South Sudan has regained limited access to oil-backed advance financing after reaching an agreement with BB Energy, including awarding three new crude cargoes.

Elections & Governance: South Sudan’s NEC chair, Prof. Abednego Akok Kacuol, proposed temporary constituency adjustments—Abyei as a standalone seat and Abiemnom/Mayom sharing one—over unresolved territorial disputes ahead of the 22 Dec 2026 polls. Independence Politics: President Salva Kiir urged unity and voter participation in his 15th Independence Day address, saying elections are the milestone to end the transitional period under the 2018 peace deal. Economy & Currency: A senior economic advisor warned the South Sudan pound could hit 1 million per $100 by year-end if urgent measures aren’t taken, citing a black-market rate around 700,000 per $100. Oil Financing: South Sudan resumed limited oil-backed financing after reaching an agreement with BB Energy, which will release three additional crude cargoes while easing court-linked restrictions until end-November 2026. Drought Response: WFP and the government launched the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan in Budi and Kapoeta North, targeting 65,000+ people with cash support and early warning communications. Local Administration: Juba City Council consulted hotels on proposed solid waste fee changes, with reported increases for large warehouses and small businesses.

Independence Anniversary & Elections: President Salva Kiir urged unity and reconciliation as South Sudan marks 15 years of independence, saying institutions are working toward the first general elections since 2011 and calling for widespread voter registration. Drought Preparedness: The UN World Food Programme and the government launched South Sudan’s first drought anticipatory action plan for Budi and Kapoeta North, targeting 65,000+ people with early warning and cash support to protect livelihoods before hunger worsens. Currency Pressure: A senior economic advisor warned the South Sudan pound could hit 1 million per $100 by year-end if urgent measures aren’t taken, citing a sharp rise in the black-market rate. Local Security & Services: Lakes State’s new police commissioner started a 30 million SSP renovation drive for police facilities, using personal funds after finding headquarters in poor condition. Peace & Governance: The National Elections Commission proposed temporary constituency adjustments ahead of the December 22, 2026 polls to manage unresolved territorial disputes. Regional Diplomacy: Angola’s President João Lourenço congratulated Algeria and South Sudan on independence anniversaries, pledging stronger ties with Juba.

Drought Preparedness: WFP and the South Sudan government have launched the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan in Budi and Kapoeta North, targeting 65,000+ people with cash support and early warning messages to protect food and livelihoods before conditions worsen. Independence & Politics: President Salva Kiir used the 15th Independence Day to urge unity and reconciliation, saying elections in December are a key step to end the transitional period under the 2018 peace deal; the NEC also proposed temporary constituency changes to manage disputes ahead of the polls. Currency Pressure: A senior economic advisor warned the South Sudan pound could hit 1 million per $100 by year-end if urgent measures aren’t taken, citing a weak local production base and rising dollar demand. Local Governance: Lakes State’s new police commissioner says he has started a 30 million SSP renovation drive for police facilities, using personal funds to fix neglected stations. Public Health: Ebola continues to spread in the region, with Africa CDC urging sustained support as the Bundibugyo outbreak in DRC and Uganda surpasses 600 deaths.

Elections & Governance: The National Elections Commission (NEC) has proposed temporary constituency changes ahead of the 22 December 2026 polls, including a standalone constituency for Abyei and a temporary shared seat for Abiemnom and Mayom, saying the move is meant to defuse territorial disputes that could derail a credible vote. Independence Politics: President Salva Kiir used the 15th Independence Day to urge unity and voter participation, framing the elections as a key step to end the transitional period under the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Security & Human Cost: As South Sudan marked 15 years of independence, at least 15 people were killed in attacks on government facilities in Warrap, with reports of injuries, underscoring how insecurity continues to shadow the election timeline. Civil Society Pushback: Stakeholders meeting an AU delegation in Juba warned that election readiness is threatened by insecurity, inadequate NEC funding, and unclear legal provisions—calling for inclusive dialogue to meet free-and-fair standards. Humanitarian & Climate Response: WFP and the government activated South Sudan’s first drought anticipatory action plan in Eastern Equatoria, shielding more than 65,000 people with cash transfers and early warning communications. Aid Tech Debate: At the AI for Good summit in Geneva, humanitarians highlighted how AI could improve emergency response, including WFP’s planned field-testing of an AI-enabled remote-controlled amphibious aid vehicle. Health Crisis Beyond Borders: Africa CDC urged sustained international support as the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda surpassed 600 deaths, warning the virus is still outpacing response. Regional Economy & Infrastructure: Kenya is seeking regional backing for the Lamu Port–South Sudan–Ethiopia transport corridor as Dangote confirms a major Lamu refinery project, while Ethiopia reiterates its push for integrated regional power connectivity.

Independence Anniversary, Peace and Elections: South Sudan marked 15 years since independence on July 9, but many citizens said the day is overshadowed by insecurity, stalled reforms, and the looming December 2026 election test. Civil society groups warned that inadequate funding for the National Elections Commission, legal ambiguities, and persistent violence could undermine a free and fair vote, while activists and leaders called for inclusive dialogue and citizen-led constitutional talks. Violence in Warrap: At least 15 people were killed in attacks on government facilities in Warrap, with reports of 12 injured, raising fresh fears of renewed political tension ahead of elections. Oil Update: South Sudan’s oil output has surpassed 100,000 barrels per day, with officials briefing President Salva Kiir on gains and plans to sustain production momentum. Ebola and Health: Africa CDC urged sustained solidarity as the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda surpassed 600 deaths, while a South African firm said it is preparing a clinical trial for an Ebola treatment candidate in affected countries including South Sudan. Regional Connectivity: Kenya reiterated plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway toward Ethiopia and South Sudan, linking transport corridors to wider East African trade and stability.

Independence at 15: South Sudan marks 15 years since July 9, 2011, but the anniversary lands amid stalled implementation of the 2018 peace deal, deep political uncertainty, and a worsening humanitarian crisis. Oil & economy: Output has topped 100,000 barrels per day, with VP Atak Santino briefing President Kiir on gains and how to sustain growth; meanwhile, South Sudan eased an oil dispute with BB Energy, agreeing to resume advance crude cargo payments after awards of three cargoes. Elections & politics: SPLM endorsed President Salva Kiir as its sole candidate for the 2026 elections, while Kiir urged SPLM state leaders to intensify membership drives ahead of polls; the Political Parties Council also appealed for $23M to expand election readiness. Peace implementation pressure: RJMEC urged leaders to accelerate R-ARCSS reforms, warning the country can’t afford delays. Finance & workers: Bank of South Sudan staff called off a strike after a 10-day ultimatum over unpaid arrears and benefits. Health & borders: The U.S. kept Ebola screening active through July 21 for travelers from DRC, Uganda and South Sudan, as a South African firm prepares an Ebola drug trial including sites in South Sudan. Regional spillover: Kenya summoned South Sudan’s mission over alleged mistreatment of Kenyan citizens and denied consular access.

Independence at 15: The UN says it will back South Sudan’s democratic transition as the country marks 15 years since independence, but many citizens are not celebrating amid insecurity and economic strain. Peace deal pressure: A policy analyst and the RJMEC both warn that the revitalised 2018 peace agreement must be fully implemented—especially security reforms and election readiness—or public trust will erode. Elections funding crunch: The Political Parties Council is seeking $23.08 million ahead of December 2026 polls, citing the need to protect political space and expand monitoring beyond Juba. Banking and labour unrest: Bank of South Sudan staff ended a strike after talks, but Central Bank staff also staged sit-ins over unpaid benefits, with fresh demands tied to arrears and medical insurance. Oil and regional business: South Sudan reached a deal with BB Energy to resume accepting crude prepayments after awards of three cargoes, while across the region Dangote confirmed a $17bn, 700,000-bpd refinery in Kenya’s Lamu—raising hopes for East African fuel supply. Diplomacy and rights: Kenya summoned South Sudan’s mission over the detention of a Kenyan citizen without charge and denied consular access, as international partners also raised concerns about amendments to the 2018 peace agreement.

Peace Agreement Pressure: RJMEC urged South Sudan’s leaders to speed up implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement as the country marks 15 years of independence, warning key reforms still remain undone. Elections Roadmap Debate: International partners say South Sudan’s parliament approved amendments to the 2018 peace deal without the required consensus, calling for dialogue with all signatories and warning the changes could undermine the transitional government’s legitimacy. Finance Accountability: South Sudan’s finance ministry is accused of blocking a $27.4m payment to hotels that hosted peace partners, despite presidential directives—raising fresh questions about government financial accountability. Cross-Border Consular Row: Kenya summoned South Sudan’s mission over the eight-month detention without charge of Kenyan Timothy Maina Nderi, denial of consular access, and attacks on Kenyan truck drivers. Regional Trade & Integration: South Sudan and Kenya agreed to boost EAC integration, including easier banking access for South Sudanese businesses and progress on the Nadapal Road project. Public Service Strain: Bank of South Sudan staff staged a sit-in over salary arrears, unpaid incentives, and access to earnings, while the central bank governor accused protesters of undermining the institution. Security in Jonglei: Jonglei authorities condemned the killing of Akobo County Commissioner James Kueth Makuach and others in an attack, with SPLM also condemning the violence and calling for dialogue over armed action.

Jonglei Violence and Elections: A government-appointed Akobo County commissioner, James Kueth Makuach, was killed in renewed fighting in Walgak, as Jonglei officials and the SPLM trade blame and call for restraint—while civil society warns the clashes could derail December 2026 election preparations. Political Parties Under Strain: SPLM-IO figures continue to break ranks: former deputy governor Isaiah Akol Mathiang and others were moved to detention in Rumbek, while Tijwog Agwet resigned from SPLM-IO, citing the party’s drift from democratic reform ideals. Bank of South Sudan Staff Protest: Bank employees held a sit-in over salary arrears, unpaid incentives, and difficulties accessing money in commercial banks; the central bank governor accused the action of being politically influenced. Revenue and Tax Exemptions: President Salva Kiir formed an ad hoc committee to review and end non-statutory tax exemptions, with a push to cancel any that lack legal basis. Regional Trade and Diplomacy: South Sudan’s trade minister met the country’s ambassador to Ghana to boost investment and market access, and UNISFA urged Sudan and South Sudan to advance security dialogue in Abyei. Ebola Response: Health agencies report the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo is still expanding, with new clinical trial steps underway as regional preparedness ramps up. Disability Rights in Politics: Women with disabilities and civil groups urged South Sudan’s Political Parties Council and electoral bodies to ensure equal, meaningful participation ahead of elections.

Elections and peace process: South Sudan stakeholders warn that the planned December 22, 2026 polls may lack credibility unless urgent reforms are completed, including unifying forces, operationalising security arrangements, finalising the permanent constitution, running a national census, and expanding civic space. Conflict in Jonglei: Peace monitors and civil society groups condemned renewed clashes between SSPDF and SPLA-IO in Akobo County (Walgak/Walgak Payam), warning the fighting could derail election preparations and disrupt humanitarian access. Political shake-up: SPLM-IO founding member Tijwog Agwet resigned, citing failure to deliver the democratic reform agenda; the party faces internal strains amid the detention of Riek Machar. Governance and revenue: President Salva Kiir formed an ad hoc committee to review and end non-statutory tax exemptions, aiming to strengthen revenue collection and tighten enforcement. Flood recovery: Nearly 5,000 flood-displaced residents returned to Rubkona, Unity State after World Bank-funded dikes reclaimed land, with roads, schools, health facilities and water points restored. Regional economy: South Sudan backed the EAC agriculture reform agenda and is set to sign an agriculture cooperation deal with Tanzania to boost trade and productivity.