AGP Executive Report

Elections & civic life: South Sudan’s Catholic bishops urged voters to reject violence, hate speech and tribalism ahead of the December 2026 elections, warning of a looming constitutional crisis whether polls happen or not. Women & peacebuilding: UN Women and partners launched a three-year peacebuilding project in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el Ghazal to strengthen women’s leadership and youth roles, targeting 2,100 women and girls. State capacity & education: President Salva Kiir established new public universities in Yei and Kuajok and renamed the University of Northern Bahr el Ghazal to the University of Aweil, expanding higher education access. Water & daily wellbeing: Egypt inaugurated the SOMBA solar groundwater station at Juba University, adding safe drinking water for students, staff and nearby communities. Security & development: SSPDF chief Santino Deng Wol said insecurity in Upper Nile is slowing health, education and infrastructure progress. Culture & remembrance: The culture minister called for peaceful Martyrs’ Day observance despite a lack of state budget. Heritage watch: UNESCO is set to consider adding South Sudan’s Boma-Badingilo migratory landscape to its threatened list.

UNESCO World Heritage in Danger: UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee meets in Busan to vote on sites threatened by war or climate change, with South Sudan’s Boma–Badingilo grasslands and woodland savannahs expected to be listed as threatened. Martyrs’ Day Culture: South Sudan’s Culture Minister Sarah Nyanath Elijah Yong urged peaceful Martyrs’ Day observance on 30 July despite no government budget, calling for candlelight vigils, prayers, and moments of silence. Church & Elections: Catholic bishops warned of a looming constitutional crisis around the planned 22 December 2026 elections, urging full implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and rejecting violence, tribalism, and misinformation. Higher Education Push: President Salva Kiir established the University of Yei and upgraded Kuajok Community College to the University of Kuajok, while renaming Northern Bahr el Ghazal’s university to the University of Aweil. Football Development: SSFF president Francis Amin Michael met FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to expand football infrastructure and prepare South Sudan’s first Women’s Premier League. Local Food Culture Online: A South Sudanese private chef in Nairobi shared a TikTok rate card featuring kisra, ugali, and other dishes, sparking lively reactions. Jonglei Tensions: SPLM-IO demanded withdrawal of SPLM-IG administration from three Jonglei counties, accusing abuses against the Lou Nuer community. Water & University Life: Egypt-funded “Somba” solar groundwater station was inaugurated at Juba University to improve safe drinking water for students, staff, and nearby residents.

Martyrs’ Day & National Memory: South Sudan’s Culture Minister Sarah Nyanath Elijah Yong urged peaceful 30 July observance despite no government budget, calling for candlelight vigils, prayers and moments of silence. Catholic Bishops & Elections: Bishops warned of a looming constitutional crisis around the 22 December 2026 elections, urging full implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and rejection of violence, tribalism and misinformation. Higher Education Expansion: President Salva Kiir established the University of Yei and upgraded Kuajok Community College to the University of Kuajok, while renaming Northern Bahr el Ghazal’s university to the University of Aweil. Culture & Music: Sudanese artist Hiba Elgizouli released the EP “Moya W Nar,” blending Sudanese grooves with lush instrumentation. Food & Identity Online: A South Sudanese private chef in Nairobi shared a TikTok rate card featuring ugali, kisra and kombo, sparking lively reactions. UNESCO Heritage in Danger: UNESCO plans to consider adding threatened sites, including South Sudan’s Boma–Badingilo Migratory Landscape, to its World Heritage in Danger list. Digital Skills for Youth: Internet Society training in Yei equipped youth with digital literacy and warned about misinformation and hate speech. Gender-Based Violence Updates: Central Equatoria reported 120+ GBV cases this year, with officials urging stronger family and community protection for minors.

Higher Education: President Salva Kiir establishes the University of Kuajok and the University of Yei, and renames Northern Bahr el Ghazal University to the University of Aweil—moves meant to expand access to higher learning. Gender & Safety: Central Equatoria reports 120+ gender-based violence cases this year, while the state gender director praises Koneta Hub’s UNICEF-supported nutrition work reaching 3,000+ malnourished children in Yei. Border Crisis: Central Equatoria and the Episcopal Diocese of Liwolo urge urgent aid after renewed South Sudan–Uganda border clashes displaced about 10,000 people, with families sheltering around St. Paul Cathedral and schools. Humanitarian Accountability: Save the Children says a branded vehicle seen with armed actors in Jonglei/Akobo was seized in January and has been outside its control since, after attacks looted and burned its facilities. Culture & Memory: South Sudan’s Culture Ministry says there’s no government budget for Martyrs’ Day (30 July), urging candlelight vigils and prayers instead. Youth & Digital Life: Internet Society training in Yei equips youth with digital skills and warns against misinformation and hate speech. Elections Prep: Western Equatoria’s governor orders commissioners to prioritize security, dialogue, and election readiness ahead of December 2026. Trade & Jobs: AfCFTA urges South Sudan to fast-track ratification so businesses can tap a wider African market.

Western Equatoria Elections Prep: Governor Daniel Badagbu ordered county commissioners to prioritize security, peacebuilding, and election preparations ahead of the 22 Dec 2026 vote, urging dialogue with traditional leaders, youth, civil society, and even armed groups willing to embrace peace. Border Tensions & Displacement: Central Equatoria called for calm after alleged UPDF–SSPDF clashes along the South Sudan–Uganda border in Kajo-Keji, with reports of over 10,000 displaced. Humanitarian Assets Under Fire: Save the Children denied links to social-media images of its branded vehicles used by armed actors in Jonglei, saying the vehicles were forcibly seized in January and have been out of its control since. Youth, Peace & Digital Skills: Root of Generations says its Mothers’ Voice for Peace project helped 36 former gang members return to school, while Internet Society training in Yei taught youth digital literacy and how to avoid misinformation and hate speech. Cost of Living in Juba: Residents blamed the weakening South Sudanese Pound for sharp jumps in food and transport prices. Media Freedom Ahead of Polls: UJOSS urged stronger protection for journalists, warning censorship and intimidation could undermine credible elections. Independence Reflection: A week of coverage marked 15 years since independence, revisiting the conflict, instability, and humanitarian crises that followed.

Humanitarian Crisis at Kajo-Keji Border: The Episcopal Diocese of Liwolo in Central Equatoria appealed for urgent aid after renewed UPDF-linked border clashes displaced about 10,000 civilians, with families sheltering around St. Paul Cathedral and local schools and facing shortages of food, water, shelter, and medical care. Local Governance & Refugee Voices: In Adjumani, refugees began Local Council One (LC1) nominations, hoping new leaders will improve services and strengthen cooperation with humanitarian partners. Infrastructure for Daily Life: South Sudanese refugees in Uganda welcomed progress on the Laropi Bridge after AfDB approval cleared procurement steps, aiming to ease transport and trade challenges caused by ferry breakdowns. Youth, Peace, and Digital Skills: Central Equatoria launched peace clubs and youth-focused efforts to curb gang involvement, while the Internet Society trained Yei youth on responsible internet use and digital opportunities. Politics & Party Mobilisation: SPLM membership registration kicked off in Central Equatoria, with leaders urging unity and stronger participation of women and youth ahead of December 2026 elections. Culture & Music Buzz: AFRIMMA 2026 nominees were unveiled, with Davido leading the pack and the awards set to return after a two-year break. Everyday Cost Pressure in Juba: Residents reported worsening living costs as the South Sudanese Pound weakens, pushing up prices for food and transport. Elections & Media Freedom: UJoSS called for stronger journalist protection and clearer civic-space rules to support credible elections.

Infrastructure & Health: Unity State Governor Joseph Nguen Manytuil launched a 92-kilometer road linking Mayom County to Twic County, aiming to boost trade and cut the dangerous delays pregnant women face reaching care. Youth, Schools & Peacebuilding: CES ministries, UNHCR and partners plan to launch Peace Clubs in schools across Juba, Luri and Rejaf to curb youth crime and gang activity through dialogue and conflict resolution. Elections & Media: AMDISS and Norwegian People’s Aid trained journalists in Bor, Jonglei on ethical, conflict-sensitive, gender-responsive election reporting ahead of December 2026 polls. Border Tensions: Clashes between SSPDF and UPDF erupted in Kajo-Keji over disputed areas, with Uganda warning of military action. Wildlife & Daily Safety: A hyena attack in Rumbek North injured two boys after entering a family home during heavy rain. Culture & Music: AFRIMMA 2026 nominees were unveiled, with South Sudan’s Single Dee listed among East Africa male contenders. Regional Health Watch: Uganda is set to discharge its last Ebola patient, starting a WHO countdown, while Congo’s outbreak continues.

Election Media Training: AMDISS and Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) launched a three-day workshop in Bor to strengthen ethical, conflict-sensitive, and gender-responsive election reporting ahead of South Sudan’s first general elections since 2011. Peacebuilding & Civil–Military Trust: The National Ministry of Peacebuilding urged stronger cooperation between civilians and organized forces, using dialogue platforms in places like Yambio, Malakal, and Nimule to reduce fear and improve accountability. Parliament & Church-Facilitated Peace: Transitional lawmakers signed a church-facilitated Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), backed by a framework meant to support peaceful dispute resolution and a culture of peace. Border Tensions: Clashes between SSPDF and UPDF erupted in Kajo-Keji over disputed areas around Nandejo village, with Uganda warning withdrawal and heavy weapons reported. Deportation Fears: More than 20 South Sudanese nationals face deportation from Sudan after a court order in Al-Dabbah, Northern State, raising anxiety over unclear charges and loss of belongings. Fuel Costs Hit Daily Life: Western Equatoria residents and boda-boda riders report sharp fuel price rises, pushing up transport costs and threatening access to education and markets. Health Access Boost: Rotary Wau donated four customized motor tricycle ambulances to TWIC in Twic County to improve emergency transport for pregnant women, children, and critical patients. Culture & Music: AFRIMMA returns after a two-year break with a Dallas festival plan; Davido leads nominations with five, alongside Tems, Burna Boy, and others. Independence-Era Humanitarian Reality: As South Sudan marks 15 years, the ICRC highlights ongoing conflict and climate shocks driving rising humanitarian needs and strained services.

Health & Access: Rotary Club of Wau donated four customized rickshaw ambulances to TWIC for emergency care in remote and displaced communities in Twic County, aiming to help pregnant women, children, and critical patients reach Mother Teresa Hospital. Community Demands: In Aweil North, residents of Mayom Angok Boma say road, school, and a police station must be built before Lol Malual Mining Company starts gold mining. Education Reform: Western Equatoria Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa ordered a full school-by-school education audit after officials warned learning standards have been declining. Drought & Displacement: Eastern Equatoria’s Imehejek area is seeing hunger and families fleeing as drought deepens and farms fail. Peacebuilding: South Sudan MPs signed a church-facilitated Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War, backed by HWPL, to strengthen reconciliation and peaceful dispute resolution. Livestock Economy: The government says it will expand veterinary services nationwide, including support for women and youth, to boost livestock productivity and markets. Culture & Media: A new presidential order replaced the SSBC board, raising fresh concerns about media freedom and rule of law. Independence-Era Humanitarian Reality: As the country marks 15 years, ICRC highlights growing needs amid conflict, climate shocks, and strained services. Women’s Health & Transport: In Kapo South, chiefs report pregnant women dying while trying to reach care due to lack of roads and emergency transport. Education for the Future: Ayii University’s chancellor warns South Sudan must overhaul curricula to prepare graduates for AI-driven job changes.

Education & Jobs: Prof. Isaac Ayii warns South Sudan’s curriculum must adapt to AI fast, or graduates may struggle to find work as machines take over more tasks. Maternal Health: WHO reports South Sudan’s neonatal mortality hit 35 per 1,000 live births in 2025, with big gaps in skilled birth attendance and low ANC coverage. Local Health Access: In Kabo South, pregnant women face deadly delays because there’s no reliable road or emergency transport; some are carried in wheelbarrows and several deaths were reported this year. Independence Culture & Faith: As South Sudan marks 15 years, bishops urge peace and reconciliation, highlighting how choirs and sacred music keep communities united and hopeful amid conflict. Youth & Community Life: Aweil East youth launched a 15-day “patriotism” clean-up campaign to improve sanitation and public health. Sports for Peace: Imagine Academy’s “Run for Peace and Development” marathon in Juba drew hundreds, with organizers stressing unity across tribes. Governance & Media: President Salva Kiir reportedly dissolved and replaced the SSBC board, raising rule-of-law concerns. Humanitarian Lens: ICRC reflects on 15 years since independence, noting conflict, displacement, and funding strain still drive urgent needs. Arts & Recognition: Kenyan artists including South Sudan’s Single Dee are among AFRIMMA 2026 nominees, with voting now open. Peacebuilding & Information: UNESCO and partners discussed strengthening access to reliable information through community radio and better ties between journalists and police. Infrastructure Drive: Yei River County’s Kanjoro Bridge committee says it’s mobilizing funds and materials ahead of the project launch. Global Travel/Policy Noise: Multiple countries’ visa rules and US TPS work-permit placeholder dates were updated, but the most direct South Sudan angle is the TPS-related guidance extending work authorization dates for South Sudan nationals.

Independence & Peacebuilding: UNESCO marked South Sudan’s 15th independence anniversary with a spotlight on partnerships, peacebuilding, and a Japan-supported push to strengthen dialogue between journalists, police, and community radio for better access to reliable information. Governance & Media Freedom: President Salva Kiir directly appointed a new SSBC board, breaking the law and raising fresh concerns about rule of law and media freedoms. Health & Maternal Care: WHO reports South Sudan’s neonatal mortality at 35 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2025, pointing to gaps in skilled birth attendance and antenatal care. Community Voices & Rights: Women MPs signed a cross-party pact to boost women’s political participation and push stalled gender-sensitive bills, while Twic women leaders demanded greater representation in leadership. Culture & Sport: Catholic bishops urged choirs to keep sacred music alive as a source of unity and hope, and Imagine Academy athletes swept Juba’s “Run for Peace and Development” marathon. Civic Services: Greater Yei began distributing newly processed national identity cards, and Upper Nile prepared to restart Malakal’s government radio by November after a long shutdown.

Independence & faith amid conflict: Catholic bishops urged peace and reconciliation as South Sudan marked 15 years since independence, with calls to reject violence and heal “wounds of war,” including messages from leaders serving communities in insecure areas. Peace through sport: Imagine Academy athletes swept the “Run for Peace and Development” marathon in Juba, with organizers stressing unity across tribes as a path to community cohesion. Women’s political push: Women MPs and allies signed a cross-party pact to strengthen women’s participation ahead of elections, including fast-tracking stalled gender-sensitive bills to protect women from GBV. Local services & safety: Kabu South residents demanded roads, a health facility, schools, and clean water, linking poor access to preventable suffering; meanwhile, a rights group reported 102 GBV and conflict-related sexual violence cases in Kabo over 11 months. Culture & identity: A Malakal radio station is set to return on air by November after a 13-year shutdown, and Greater Yei residents began collecting new national identity cards. Regional spotlight: A Sudanese court sentenced RSF leader Hemedti to death in absentia, underscoring how regional instability keeps spilling into South Sudan’s cultural and civic life.

Juba City Waste Debate: Juba City Council’s talks with hotel operators over higher waste fees are reframed as a chance to treat trash as a resource—turning dumps into jobs and cleaner public health. Blue House Fire: A South Sudanese opinion piece urges a thorough, impartial investigation into the NSS Blue House fire, with stronger safety checks if it was technical, or accountability if it was deliberate. GBV in Juba County: A rights group reports 102 cases of gender-based violence and conflict-related sexual violence in Kabo (Juba County) over 11 months, linking the rise to youth crime, drugs, land grabbing, and weak services. Protocol Tensions: Central Equatoria Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu republishes a government precedence guide after a public protocol dispute with former Environment Minister Josephine Napwon at Jubek Day. Independence-Era Youth Voice: Save the Children highlights a Juba radio show where children ask leaders about education, conflict, and the future—15 years after independence, amid hunger and displacement. Ebola Update (Regional): Ebola spreads in DRC to Haut-Uele and Tshopo, with confirmed cases rising and an infected American treated in Frankfurt. UN Peacekeeping & Women: India pushes women peacekeepers at the UNSC debate on conflict-related sexual violence, arguing they deter GBV and strengthen safety systems. Immigration Policy Shock (Global): In the US, TPS work permits for Haitians and others—including South Sudan—are temporarily extended while courts respond to Supreme Court rulings.

Independence & Youth Voices: Save the Children’s Eye Radio show in Juba is giving children a direct platform to question leaders on education, conflict, and the future—an Independence Day reminder that young people want to be part of decisions, not just affected by them. GBV & Community Safety: A rights group reports 102 cases of gender-based violence and conflict-related sexual violence in Kabo near Juba over 11 months, linking the rise to youth crime, drug abuse, land grabbing, and weak services like health care and clean water. Culture & Language: Bari community leaders marked Jubek Day by renewing calls to preserve the Bari language and protect cultural heritage as a tool for peace and unity. Local Governance & Protocol: Central Equatoria Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu reposted an old government protocol guide after a public dispute over how a former minister was introduced during Jubek Day. Commemoration: Ex-Jonglei information minister Isaac Ajiba Ochang was laid to rest in Juba, remembered as a “man of peace” across multiple communities. Women Peacekeeping: At the UN Security Council, India urged more women peacekeepers to deter conflict-related sexual violence, citing UNMISS service and upcoming recognition.

GBV & Community Safety: A rights group says Kabo area near Juba recorded 102 cases of gender-based violence and conflict-related sexual violence in 11 months, driven by youth crime, drug abuse, and land grabbing—while health, school, and water gaps make prevention harder. Independence, Youth Voices & Unity: As South Sudan marks 15 years, children in Juba are asking leaders questions on education and conflict on a Save the Children radio show, while Yei Commissioner Samuel Malimbo urges peace, unity, and youth and women’s involvement in building services and reconciliation. Cultural Heritage: The Bari community marked Jubek Day with renewed calls to preserve the Bari language and culture as a peace tool for a diverse nation. Health & Borders: Ethiopia and South Sudan coordinated a polio vaccination push in high-risk border areas and refugee camps after cVDPV1 cases were detected near the border. Diaspora & Rights: Amnesty says the latest US deportation batch to Eswatini is unlawful, calling it “cruel and racist,” as migrants remain in limbo under third-country arrangements. Media & Training: China International Communication Group opened a three-week training for mainstream media practitioners from South Sudan and other developing countries.

Independence at 15 (Juba & beyond): South Sudan marked 15 years since July 9, 2011 with renewed calls for peace, unity, and a credible path to the December 2026 elections, as civil society and religious voices urged inclusive dialogue and reconciliation. Youth & education voices: Save the Children launched a radio show where children in Juba interview leaders about education, conflict, and the future—highlighting how many young people remain out of school amid crisis. Culture & language: The Bari community celebrated Jubek Day with fresh appeals to preserve the Bari language and heritage as a tool for peace and identity. Local unity messages: Yei River County’s commissioner urged citizens—especially youth, women, and religious leaders—to work for reconciliation, agriculture, and stronger local services. Violence shadows the celebrations: At least 15 people were killed in attacks on government facilities in Warrap during the independence period, underscoring how insecurity still shapes daily life. Elections readiness concerns: Civil society told an AU delegation that insecurity, funding gaps for the elections commission, and unclear legal rules could undermine a free and fair vote.