AGP Executive Report

Ebola Response: WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised Uganda’s handling of the Ebola outbreak linked to DR Congo, saying border screening and surveillance helped keep Uganda’s case fatality rate below 1%, while UNICEF says it is racing to scale up supplies in the region as funding gaps threaten the response. Cross-Border Health Measures: Justice Minister introduced temporary visa restrictions tied to Ebola risk, with South Sudan listed among affected countries, as Dubai also delivered 20 tonnes of medical aid to support DR Congo’s frontline centres. Politics Ahead of 2026: Analysts say President Salva Kiir’s Bahr el Ghazal tour looks like early election positioning, aimed at reinforcing loyalty networks ahead of December 2026 polls. Security & Peace Process: SSPDF Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Santino Deng Wol told troops in Jonglei to stop attacking SPLA-IO and fight only in self-defense, saying the peace agreement is still active. Local Governance & Youth Protection: A lawyer urged police and Juba City Council to summon hotel and nightclub owners over reports of minors entering venues, calling for strict enforcement of the under-18 ban. Food Security & Jobs: VP Taban returned to Juba urging farmers to use the rainy season to boost production, while Yei officials called for fair employment practices and compliance with labour rules.

SSPDF Ceasefire Order: Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Santino Deng Wol told troops in Jonglei to stop attacking SPLA-IO and fight only in self-defense, warning those left out of unified training to disarm or face criminal classification. Ebola Cross-Border Shock: Uganda confirmed three new Ebola cases, bringing its total to 19, while the UAE suspended new visas and entry for travellers from DRC, Uganda and South Sudan (with a 21-day third-country exception) and World Cup host countries expanded screening. Election Security Build-Up: Central Equatoria recruited 2,500 police officers for 2026 elections, training them for crowd control and protection of civilians and property. Oil Transparency Push: Civil society activist Edmund Yakani urged the Ministry of Petroleum to disclose crude oil revenue, not just production figures. Juba Hospital Support: Nilepet donated hygiene and sanitation supplies to Juba Teaching Hospital to boost infection prevention. Youth Detention Appeals: Aweil East youth petitioned President Kiir to release three detained ex-officials, while Twic Mayardit Youth Association demanded release or court arraignment for six detainees. Sports & Community: Wafalme Stars swept Zone Five volleyball qualifiers, and Ibba County’s commissioner pledged monthly support for Arsenal fans in Maridi.

Ebola Travel Curbs: The UAE has suspended new visas and barred travellers from the DRC, Uganda and South Sudan, with a 21-day third-country stay exemption; Mauritius and other countries also tightened entry rules as the outbreak spreads. Public Health Pressure: In the US, CDC expanded enhanced Ebola screening at major airports, while India reported a suspected Ebola case in Jaipur that tested negative—showing how quickly fears are driving quarantine and screening. Juba Security Ahead of Elections: Central Equatoria recruited 2,500 police officers for 2026 election security, training them for crowd control and civilian protection. Detention Calls: Aweil East youth petitioned President Kiir to release three detained former officials, while Twic Mayardit youth demanded release or court arraignment for six detainees held since late 2025/early 2026. Oil Sector Accountability: Civil society activist Edmund Yakani urged the Ministry of Petroleum to disclose crude oil revenue, not just production figures. Health Support in Juba: Nilepet donated hygiene and sanitation supplies to Juba Teaching Hospital to boost infection prevention. Sports & Community: Wafalme Stars qualified for the CAVB African Nations Championship after a perfect Zone Five run, and Central Equatoria’s governor-backed police recruitment and local football fan support kept community news moving.

Ebola Response and Travel Curbs: The UAE has suspended new visas and barred travellers from Uganda, the DRC and South Sudan, with a 21-day exemption for those who stayed outside the affected countries; Mauritius also imposed a temporary entry ban on foreigners linked to the three countries, with mandatory quarantine for returning residents. Ebola Spillover Fears Hit Trade: Uganda’s border closure with the DRC over Ebola concerns has left traders reporting major losses as trucks and consignments get stuck at Mpondwe. US Funding Boost: The US State Department announced nearly $38m more for Ebola efforts in the DRC and Uganda, bringing direct support to over $200m, as CDC warns the outbreak could rival the 2014 crisis without strong interventions. Local Health and Preparedness: A suspected Ebola case in India’s Rajasthan—after a tourist from Uganda showed Ebola-like symptoms—tested negative, while another Sudanese national in Hyderabad was isolated after fever screening. Oil Sector Labour Tension: Trade unions in South Sudan’s oil firms called for suspension of a directive on National Social Insurance Fund contributions, saying key legal steps were not followed. Church and Community: Archbishop Charles Balvo was farewelled in Australia after serving as Apostolic Nuncio, including time in Kenya and South Sudan.

Ebola Response: The UAE has suspended new visas and barred travellers from Uganda, the DRC and South Sudan, effective June 6, citing Ebola precautions; Mauritius also imposed a temporary entry ban with a mandatory 21-day quarantine for returning residents. U.S. Funding Boost: The U.S. State Department added nearly $38m to Ebola efforts, bringing direct support to over $200m, while CDC warns the outbreak in the DRC could match or surpass the 2014 crisis without strong interventions. Regional Health Pressure: Uganda’s border closures over Ebola fears have disrupted trade, with traders reporting goods rotting at the Mpondwe crossing. Local Governance & Elections: President Salva Kiir urged mass voter registration ahead of December 2026 elections, saying elections are the only route to a peaceful democratic transition. Oil Sector Labour: Oil workers’ unions in South Sudan called for suspension of a National Social Insurance Fund directive, arguing key legal steps were not followed. Sports: Kenya’s Wafalme volleyball team qualified for the African Nations Championship after sweeping Zone 5 qualifiers.

Ebola Response Escalates: The US pledged an extra $38m for Ebola efforts as the CDC warns the DRC outbreak could rival or surpass 2014, with officials citing rapid community transmission and no approved vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain. Border and Travel Curbs: Uganda tightened the Congo border, traders reported major losses, and the UAE suspended visas/entry from DRC, Uganda and South Sudan; Mauritius also imposed a 21-day quarantine for travelers from the three countries. South Sudan Focus: President Salva Kiir urged mass voter registration ahead of December elections, while South Sudan’s oil output climbed and the Co-operative Bank pushed capacity-building for co-ops in Northern Bahr el Ghazal. UN Peacekeeping Remembrance: The UN marked International Day of UN Peacekeepers, honouring fallen peacekeepers including two Indian troops linked to UNMISS and MONUSCO. Local Security and Rights: Tonj South stepped up police security amid killings, and Western Equatoria released children linked to armed forces for rehabilitation.

Ebola Response: Cafod has launched an emergency fundraising appeal and is scaling up Ebola prevention in DRC’s Ituri, pushing handwashing, hygiene kits, PPE for health workers, and community surveillance as trust and a weak health system hamper control. Public Health at Borders: The UAE has suspended visas and tightened entry for travellers from DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan, while India reported a suspected Ebola case in Jaipur from Uganda and said tests are underway. Elections Security: Over 3,000 South Sudan National Police recruits have started election security training in Juba, focused on crowd control, rapid response, and protecting polling sites ahead of December 2026 polls. Politics Inside Opposition: PDM is in turmoil after members removed former VP Josephine Joseph Lagu as chairperson, with another faction calling the move unconstitutional. Regional Diplomacy: South Sudan’s deputy mission head says the country wants to deepen ties with Ethiopia, citing shared history and cooperation. Child Protection: Six former child soldiers were reunited with families in Warrap after UNICEF-supported demobilisation. Security in States: Tonj South has increased police mobilisation amid a rise in killings, and civil society warns of looming armed mobilisation in Jonglei that could spill into Greater Pibor. Oil Update: GPOC says South Sudan’s oil output hit 60,158 bpd, the highest since 2005.

Intra-Africa Trade Push: President William Ruto challenged African entrepreneurs to stop chasing overseas markets and trade more aggressively within Africa, urging stronger value chains under AfCFTA during a Kenya–South Africa business forum in Midrand. Border-Post Reality Check: Business leaders at the same forum complained that agreements move faster than customs and border enforcement, slowing investment and cross-border trade. Aid Rations Replace Cash: In South Sudan’s refugee settlements, people are increasingly forced to sell “Not for sale” food rations to buy essentials as the economy collapses and the pound loses value. Oil Sector Breakthrough: South Sudan’s petroleum output climbed sharply, with GPOC recording its highest crude production in nearly two decades—60,158 barrels per day as of May 29—while President Kiir urged stakeholders to keep oil fields stable and boost production. Ebola Disrupts Region: Eastern Africa U18/U20 athletics championships were postponed indefinitely due to Ebola in Uganda and eastern DRC, as confirmed DRC cases rose to 363 with 62 deaths and Uganda reported recoveries. Ebola Travel Curbs: The US and Canada tightened World Cup travel rules for visitors from DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan, adding uncertainty for fans and journalists. Hunger Crisis in Jonglei: WFP and partners are scaling up aid in Akobo as conflict and displacement drive catastrophic hunger, with families trapped by insecurity and bad roads. Politics Deadline: South Sudan’s Political Parties Council set June 30 as the final deadline for parties seeking to contest the December 2026 elections.

Ebola Update: DR Congo’s confirmed Ebola cases rose to 363 with 62 deaths, while Uganda reported four recoveries, as WHO urged faster action and warned the outbreak could worsen. Regional Health Coordination: EAC health ministers agreed to harmonise Ebola surveillance and protective measures at airports, ports and land borders, setting up a regional technical taskforce to coordinate the response. World Cup Fallout: Ebola fears are disrupting preparations, including the cancellation of DR Congo’s pre-World Cup friendly in Spain, and US/Canada tightened travel rules for visitors from DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan. Humanitarian Crisis in Jonglei: Conflict and hunger are driving families deeper into catastrophe in Akobo, with WFP scaling up aid as malnutrition rises. Oil Sector Boost: South Sudan’s crude output climbed to 174,000 barrels per day, with officials citing recovery studies, drilling and infrastructure upgrades. Politics: The Political Parties Council set June 30 as the final deadline for parties seeking to contest the 2026 elections. Local Life: Yei trained mosquito net distributors ahead of a countywide malaria campaign, and Yambio youth elected a leadership committee for the 2026 inter-area football tournament.

Mining & Investment: South Sudan’s Mining Minister, Losuba Ludoru Wongo, met Bianchi Gold Trading Company in Juba and told foreign investors they must follow South Sudan’s mining laws, safe practices, and regulations while the government pushes transparency and stronger oversight. Wildlife Safety in Juba: The Wildlife Conservation Ministry says a hyena filmed roaming a residential area in Juba is privately owned and will be relocated to natural habitat after authorities traced the animal and warned it could harm children, women, or sick people. Health Screening Abroad: A Sudanese traveller in Hyderabad was isolated and sent to Gandhi Hospital after fever was detected during airport thermal screening; officials say it is precautionary testing linked to travel history, not a confirmed Ebola case. Women’s Rights Training: Thirty community leaders in Juba, including nine women, began a three-day training on women’s legal rights, land entitlements, gender-based violence prevention, and referral systems. Elections Prep: The Political Parties Council set June 30, 2026 as the final deadline for parties to register to contest South Sudan’s 2026 general elections. Displacement & Durable Solutions: Government and UN will review progress on durable solutions for IDPs in Juba on June 16, with a UN team visiting Malakal to assess projects and engage returnees.

Ebola Response & Travel Rules: WHO urged countries to lift Ebola travel restrictions, days after Canada paused visas and introduced 21-day self-isolation for people arriving from DRC, Uganda and South Sudan, as the outbreak spreads beyond Africa and governments tighten entry checks. Elections & Political Parties: South Sudan’s Political Parties Council set a June 30, 2026 deadline for parties to register to contest the 2026 general elections, warning late applicants will miss the ballot. IDPs & Durable Solutions: Government and UN will review progress on durable solutions for displaced people in Juba on June 16, with a UN team visiting Malakal June 10–12; the UN says 2.5 million people remain internally displaced. Security Ahead of Polls: President Kiir directed Central Equatoria to strengthen security and maintain peace while election preparations continue. Nasir Trial: Suspended Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol told the Special Court he urged local leaders, including Kang Makana, to avoid attacking the SSPDF garrison during Nasir tensions. Health Workers’ Welfare: Lakes State nurses and midwives called for better working conditions, citing delayed salaries and shortages. Education: NEC nullified results of 87 candidates from Nimule Model Secondary School for exam cheating, awarding zero scores to 23 others. Media & AI: The Media Authority urged journalists to use AI responsibly, verify AI content origins, and protect journalistic integrity.

Ebola Border Alert: South Sudan’s police and health authorities have urged tighter border monitoring as the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo and Uganda raises fears of spread, with calls to stop illegal crossings and strengthen screening. Humanitarian Trust Under Fire: A new report warns that propaganda and false information are undermining humanitarian work, damaging public trust and making it harder to reach people in need. Travel Curbs Ripple Regionally: Canada has suspended entry documents for residents of DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan for 90 days, while other countries issue World Cup-era Ebola travel updates—fueling anxiety and disruption. UN Peacekeeping Medal: Over 550 Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan received the UN Medal of Honour, including 53 women, for patrols, community engagement and support to civilians. Education Update: South Sudan released 2025 CSE results with an 80.7% pass rate, led by Darling Wisdom Academy. Health Tech Support: MTN launched its Yellow Care campaign with Juba Teaching Hospital, including solar power for the neonatal ward and repairs to the CT scan machine.

Ebola Alert: South Sudan’s borders are under fresh scrutiny as police and health authorities urge tighter monitoring after the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC and Uganda; officials say the WHO has declared it a public health emergency and that no vaccine is currently licensed for this strain. Travel Restrictions: The UK Foreign Office issued World Cup travel guidance, warning that the U.S. has introduced temporary entry limits for travellers recently in the DRC, Uganda or South Sudan, with symptom checks advised for 21 days. Local Response: South Sudan’s Ministry of Health says integrated control measures are in place, including hospital sensitisation, airport temperature screening, public information campaigns, and lab readiness. Health Support: MTN South Sudan launched its Yellow Care campaign with Juba Teaching Hospital, pledging solar power for the neonatal ward, CT scan repairs, and voice/SMS health messaging for mothers. Education Update: South Sudan released 2025 CSE results with an 80.7% pass rate and top performers from Darling Wisdom Academy. Peace & Justice: A legal expert urges stronger training for police investigators and prosecutors to tackle cybercrime and online sexual abuse cases.

Ebola Response: South Sudan defended its stance after the UN renewed sanctions and the arms embargo, saying the measures undermine peace implementation and state-building, while President Kiir urged Central and Western Equatoria leaders to tighten security and cohesion ahead of elections. Humanitarian Crisis: WFP scaled up emergency food and nutrition support in Akobo as catastrophic hunger and malnutrition deepen, even with insecurity and damaged infrastructure slowing aid. Public Health in South Sudan: Yei River County launched a mosquito net campaign targeting over 227,700 people to cut malaria cases, with community-led distribution to avoid duplication. Peacekeeping Spotlight: UNMISS honoured over 550 Indian peacekeepers (including 53 women) with the UN Medal of Honour in Malakal for protecting civilians and supporting peacebuilding. Regional Diplomacy: South Korea’s foreign minister held talks with counterparts from 11 African countries on expanding cooperation, including development and security. Elections & Politics: Opposition leader Hussein Abdelbagi urged Muslims in Northern Bahr el Ghazal to back Kiir in the 2026 polls, citing freedom of religion under the current administration.

Ebola Crisis: The IRC warns Congo’s Ebola outbreak is “likely far worse” than official figures, citing delayed detection and only about 20% contact tracing, with fears it could spread to more countries including South Sudan. Vaccine Race: Three vaccine makers secured up to $50m to develop a shot for the Bundibugyo strain as medics struggle to contain widening suspected cases. Regional Response: EAC health ministers meet to coordinate a cross-border plan as suspected cases in DR Congo and Uganda surge past 1,100. South Sudan Politics: South Sudan rejects U.S. criticism and renews calls to lift UN sanctions and the arms embargo; President Kiir urges peace and security in Central and Western Equatoria ahead of elections, while VP Hussein tells Warrap communities to stop hostilities. Humanitarian Pressure: WFP scales up emergency food and nutrition aid in Akobo as hunger worsens, with parts of the county facing catastrophe-level food insecurity. Elections Prep: Russia funds training for NEC officials in Moscow to strengthen preparations for the December 2026 polls.

Ebola Crisis: The deadly Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo is accelerating, with experts warning it has now reached Brazil after two suspected cases were reported, while the death toll in Congo climbs to about 250 and suspected infections pass 1,000—prompting border closures and travel curbs even as WHO urges countries to avoid blanket restrictions. Regional Health Response: East African Community health ministers are set to meet urgently (June 1–2) to coordinate a cross-border response, including surveillance, lab support and rapid response teams, as Africa CDC says more than 1,100 suspected cases are under investigation across Congo and Uganda. South Sudan Impact: The outbreak’s spillover risk is heightened by Ituri’s proximity to Uganda and South Sudan, and Canada has imposed a 93-day travel freeze affecting travellers from South Sudan alongside Congo and Uganda. Diplomacy & Cooperation: South Korea hosted its first ministerial meeting with 50 African countries in Seoul to strengthen joint responses to global challenges, including supply chain disruptions and health cooperation. UN Peacekeeping Pressure: UNMISS says budget constraints are forcing base closures and reduced personnel even as insecurity and humanitarian needs persist ahead of South Sudan’s 2026 elections. Hunger Watch: UN agencies warn acute hunger is worsening, with millions at risk as aid funding falls.