AGP Executive Report

Elections & Peace Process: President Salva Kiir signed an amendment that clears the legal path for December polls, removing links to the permanent constitution process and the national census, and urged South Sudanese to register in big numbers while keeping the 2018 peace agreement intact. Youth & Governance: A national youth forum in Juba called for full implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, inclusive elections, youth representation in governance, and economic reforms including the Youth Enterprise Development Fund. Political Transition Debate: NAS leader Gen. Thomas Cirillo told an online forum that the current transition is “aborted,” alleging government restrictions on civic space and reiterating NAS’s position against the 2018 peace process. Security & Borders: Central Equatoria Governor Emmanuel Adil held cross-border talks in Arua with Ugandan authorities after clashes in Kajo-Keji displaced civilians; meanwhile, a reported boat ambush in Lakes State killed 32 passengers with only five survivors. Health & Ebola: Ebola in the DRC and Uganda has surpassed 1,000 deaths, with officials warning the outbreak is still spreading fast and that South Sudan faces heightened screening and preparedness concerns. Economy & Planning: The Finance Ministry began consultations for the 10-year South Sudan Development Plan (2026–2036), while the government also launched consultations on a 10-year development framework and continued efforts to stabilize costs amid currency and fuel pressures. Foreign Affairs & Travel: South Sudan’s foreign ministry denied claims of new visa-free entry for Egypt and Tanzania, and the US issued fresh global travel warnings, including Ebola-related screening reminders for eligible arrivals.

Elections & Peace Deal: President Kiir has signed an amendment that clears the legal path for South Sudan’s December 2026 polls, removing earlier links to the permanent constitution and a national census. Security & Justice: A detained deputy chief of defense forces told court the arrest and trial of senior SPLM-IO leaders is a “coup against the peace agreement,” arguing it undermines the 2018 deal. Violence on the Roads & Rivers: At least 32 passengers were reportedly killed in a Lakes State boat ambush on the River Nile, while a separate Juba–Bor highway bus attack left the driver dead and the fate of passengers unclear. Ebola Alert: Foreign embassies urged South Sudan to pay public health workers on time as DR Congo’s Ebola death toll surpassed 1,000, with officials warning the crisis could worsen without urgent action. Economy & Cash Crunch: South Sudan ordered businesses to pay taxes and customs charges in cash to ease liquidity problems, while saying Capital Pay will keep recording digital transactions. Food Security: IFAD and the government launched a $41.8m programme to boost climate-resilient farming and fisheries, as drought in parts of Eastern Equatoria pushed families toward food shortages and displacement. Local Governance & Youth: Western Equatoria’s governor warned against tribal politics ahead of elections, while Central Equatoria’s governor urged youth to lead peacebuilding and civic participation.

Border Security: Central Equatoria Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony heads to Kajo-Keji for cross-border peace talks with Uganda’s West Nile after UPDF–SSPDF clashes displaced civilians, with plans to meet border authorities and affected families. Food Security: Juba and IFAD launch a $41.8M programme for food security and resilient livelihoods in Terekeka, Mundri West, Mvolo and Bor, targeting over 100,000 people over seven years. Digital Revenue & Cash Liquidity: Government says Capital Pay will keep running digital revenue collection, but businesses and banks must remit taxes in cash to ease shortages, alongside steps to recapitalize the Bank of South Sudan. Electricity Costs: A ministerial team inspects Ezra Power Plant’s heavy fuel oil needs as the state reviews a tax exemption request to sustain power supply in Juba. Health Crisis: WHO reports DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak has reached 2,423 confirmed cases and 967 deaths, with some signs of stabilization in Ituri but continued active transmission. Public Order & Rights: CEPO says it will monitor enforcement of South Sudan’s Cybercrime Act to ensure it targets real cybercrime and doesn’t silence dissent. Immigration Clarification: The Interior Ministry dismisses social media claims of new visa-free entry rules for Egypt and Tanzania, saying no official policy change was approved. Local Violence: Wau police investigate multiple shootings that killed a prison officer/teacher and a 15-year-old boy. Economy & Prices: Juba residents blame a weak pound and taxes for rising prices despite fuel price drops.

U.S. Travel Advisory: The U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution for Americans, urging heightened vigilance as tensions rise in the Middle East and warning of possible travel disruptions. Sudan Conflict Spillover: Local relief workers in Sudan’s el-Obeid say drone strikes and fighting are driving urgent civilian needs, with fears of mass atrocities if attacks intensify. Juba Liquidity & Taxes: A ministerial committee directed cash tax payments into SSRA bank accounts and approved steps to recapitalize the Bank of South Sudan, aiming to ease liquidity shortages and support salaries. Power Supply Pressure: Ezra Power Plant’s heavy fuel oil needs are under review after it sought tax exemptions to keep Juba electricity running reliably. Visa Rumours Denied: South Sudan’s Interior Ministry dismissed social media claims of visa-free entry limited to Egypt and Tanzania, saying no official policy change was approved. Food Aid Delivered: China handed over the final consignment of emergency food aid to South Sudan—3,256 metric tons of rice and wheat. Women’s Football: SSFF finalized plans for the 2026–2027 season and launched the country’s first Women’s Premier League. Local Safety Update: Wau police are investigating multiple fatal shootings and a boy’s drowning. Education Access: An Aweil scholarship centre is set to welcome 1,500 vulnerable children. Cybercrime Watch: CEPO says it will monitor enforcement of the Cybercrime Act to ensure it isn’t used to silence dissent. DRC Ebola Update: Ebola cases in the DRC rose to 2,423, including 967 deaths, as transmission continues across multiple zones.

Visa Row: South Sudan’s Ministry of Interior has dismissed social media reports claiming Egypt and Tanzania were granted visa-free entry only, saying the immigration policy and official fee schedule were not changed. Cybercrime Act Watch: CEPO says it has set up a platform to monitor how South Sudan’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act is enforced, warning against using it to silence dissent. Local Land Crackdown: Ngauro authorities banned illegal land grabbing and unauthorised land transactions, threatening administrative and legal action against offenders. Ebola Update (DRC): Confirmed Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo rose to 2,423 with 967 deaths, as transmission continues across 47 health zones. Abyei Tensions: Juba reiterated that Abyei residents’ participation in December 22 elections is legally justified under the Abyei Protocol, after Sudan raised objections. Security in Greater Upper Nile: SSPDF Chief Gen. Santino Deng Wol met senior Nuer officers to discuss restoring stability amid renewed clashes. Education Push: President Kiir approved three new public universities (Aweil, Kuajok, Yei) to expand higher education access. Humanitarian Aid: China handed over 3,256 metric tons of wheat and rice to support vulnerable communities facing overlapping crises.

Food Security: China handed over the final consignment of 3,256 metric tons of wheat and rice to South Sudan in Juba, as drought, floods, conflict and Sudan’s spillover keep pushing families into hunger. Elections & Security: SSPDF Chief Gen. Santino Deng Wol urged soldiers to reject tribal politics and seek public office through constitutional, democratic election processes. Youth & Peacebuilding: VP James Wani Igga opened an IGAD youth forum in Juba calling on young people to lead peacebuilding and national development. Education: Government launched a UNESCO-backed mobile learning programme for teachers across five African countries, with a special focus on female educators and school leaders, starting with training in Abuja. Higher Education: President Kiir approved three new public universities in Aweil, Kuajok and Yei, and renamed Northern Bahr el Ghazal’s university to Aweil. Fuel & Cost of Living: The government says 200 fuel trucks are expected next week to ease shortages and pressure on prices, while officials also reviewed Ezra Power Plant’s fuel needs after a tax exemption request. Governance & Justice: Catholic bishops in Juba called on political leaders to prioritize dialogue and fully implement the 2018 peace agreement. Regional Politics: SPLM signed a cooperation deal with Kenya’s UDA, saying it wants to learn from Kenya’s election experience ahead of South Sudan’s polls.

Elections & Governance: Civil society leader Edmund Yakani warns voter registration for South Sudan’s December 2026 polls is at risk from delayed funding and insecurity, threatening staffing, materials and officials’ movement. Cyber & Rights: Activists say the government’s start of enforcing the Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, 2026 could be used to silence dissent ahead of elections, urging safeguards for freedom of expression and media. Peacebuilding: Two Jonglei communities, Ayual (Twic East) and Hol (Duk), have agreed to end long-running violence and restore movement for people, goods and services. Economy & Investment: The African Energy Chamber backs South Sudan’s push for reforms to attract new investment across the oil value chain, as government seeks clearer regulatory frameworks. Agriculture: A Jur River commissioner urges farming over conflict, citing large-scale groundnut and sorghum production as a jobs and food strategy. Immigration Update: The Ministry of Interior dismisses social media claims of new visa-free entry rules for Egypt and Tanzania as false. Health: Ebola continues to worsen in Congo, with Canada and the U.S. tightening entry rules—raising concerns for humanitarian response.

Elections & Governance: Civil society leader Edmund Yakani warns South Sudan’s voter registration could be derailed by delayed funding and insecurity ahead of the December 2026 general elections, stressing the costly logistics of deploying officials and materials across 204 constituencies. Security & Development: SSPDF Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Santino Deng Wol says insecurity in Upper Nile is slowing development, leaving the region behind in health, education, and infrastructure. Cyber Rights: Activist Bol Deng Bol backs action against cybercrime but warns the Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, 2026, could curb freedom of expression if safeguards aren’t enforced before elections. Youth & Peace: IGAD and the South Sudan National Youth Union launch a Juba youth leadership, peace and security forum to boost youth participation in peacebuilding and the democratic transition. Water & Services: South Sudan inaugurates Egypt-funded “Somba” groundwater station at Juba University, part of a wider push for solar-powered drinking water across the country. Investment & Oil Revival: South Sudan’s reforms aim to attract new investment across the oil value chain, with the African Energy Chamber backing efforts to revive the sector. Regional Health Shock: Canada escalates Ebola-related border measures by temporarily barring foreign nationals who visited the DRC in the past 21 days, with air carriers also required to refuse boarding.

SPLM Modernization Debate: An op-ed argues the SPLM must modernize its political approach, warning South Sudan’s deeper state-building gaps can’t be fixed by elections alone. Elections Watch: The NEC says preparations are moving—commissioners appointed in most states—but funding gaps, insecurity and logistics still threaten the timetable. Security & Development: SSPDF chief Santino Deng Wol warns insecurity in Upper Nile is slowing health, education and infrastructure, urging communities to back peace. Jonglei Tensions: SPLM-IO demands SPLM-IG withdraw from Uror, Nyirol and Akobo counties, alleging abuses against the Lou Nuer community. Fuel Relief: Government says fuel prices should ease after an agreement with Somali traders, while 200 fuel trucks are expected next week to stabilize supply. Women in Peacebuilding: UN Women and UNESCO launch a three-year project to strengthen women’s leadership in peacebuilding in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el Ghazal. UNESCO Heritage in Danger: UNESCO is set to consider adding South Sudan’s Boma–Badingilo savannas to the endangered list, alongside other threatened sites. US Travel Warning: The US placed South Sudan among 23 countries on its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory.

Water & Infrastructure: South Sudan inaugurated Egypt-funded “Somba” solar groundwater station at Juba University, part of a wider push to expand safe drinking water across the country. Fuel & Cost of Living: Government says fuel prices should ease after an agreement with Somali traders, with the price expected to drop to SSP 14,800 per litre, and about 200 fuel trucks set to arrive next week. Elections & Governance: SPLM-IO demands withdrawal of SPLM-IG administration from three Jonglei counties, alleging abuses against the Lou Nuer community. Higher Education: President Kiir established two new public universities (Yei and Kuajok) and renamed the University of Northern Bahr el Ghazal to the University of Aweil. Cyber & Rights: South Sudan begins enforcing the controversial Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, with critics warning it could curb free expression ahead of December 2026 elections. International Watch: The UN’s UNESCO plans to vote in Busan on adding sites “in danger,” with South Sudan’s Boma–Badingilo savannas expected to be considered. Sports: SSFF President Francis Amin met FIFA’s Gianni Infantino to push football development, including plans for a Women’s Premier League.

Fuel Prices Relief: South Sudan expects fuel prices to drop after a deal with Somali traders, cutting the cost from SSP 18,000 to SSP 14,800 per litre, with about 200 fuel trucks due to enter next week to stabilise supply. Martyrs’ Day Observance: The Culture Minister urged South Sudanese to mark 30 July peacefully with candlelight vigils and prayers despite a budget shortfall for official celebrations. Higher Education Push: President Salva Kiir established the University of Yei and upgraded Kuajok Community College to the University of Kuajok, while renaming the University of Northern Bahr el Ghazal to the University of Aweil. Cybercrime Law Starts: The government began implementing the controversial Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act 2026, saying it will protect digital infrastructure ahead of December elections, while critics fear limits on free speech. Elections and Abyei: South Sudan defended including Abyei residents in the December 2026 polls, rejecting Sudan’s objections and citing constitutional and legal grounds. US Travel Warning: The US placed South Sudan among 23 countries on its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” list, citing serious security risks and limited ability to assist. UNESCO Heritage at Risk: UNESCO is set to consider adding threatened sites, including South Sudan’s Boma–Badingilo migratory landscape, to its World Heritage in Danger list. Ebola Pressure in Region: WHO says the DRC Ebola outbreak is outpacing response, with armed conflict and resistance hampering access.

Elections & Diplomacy: South Sudan defends Abyei residents’ participation in the December 2026 elections, citing legal agreements after Sudan objected. Aviation & Governance: President Salva Kiir inaugurates Juba International Airport Terminal 3, calling it a “positive signal” and urging tighter management of public contracts. Economy & Prices: Analyst warns the South Sudanese pound’s depreciation is deepening the economic crisis and fuelling inflation through higher import costs. Energy & Investment: The African Energy Chamber backs a new investment push as South Sudan seeks oil-sector revival and broader energy growth beyond crude. Public Services & Local Revenue: Juba City Council passes the Property Tax Bylaw 2026 to strengthen municipal funding for roads, waste, sanitation and planning. Humanitarian & Border Security: Bishops and state officials report displacement after renewed fighting along the South Sudan–Uganda border, with calls for urgent calm. Media & Elections Readiness: UJOSS urges media freedom and stronger journalist protection ahead of December polls. Health Watch (DRC Ebola): WHO says the DRC Ebola outbreak is outpacing response as cases surpass 2,000, with insecurity and resistance hampering access. Education Expansion: Kiir establishes new public universities, including upgrading Kuajok Community College and renaming Northern Bahr el Ghazal to Aweil. Regional Trade: AfCFTA Secretariat urges South Sudan to fast-track ratification to unlock wider African market access. U.S. Policy Ripple: Supreme Court-driven TPS changes in the U.S. shift deadlines for South Sudanese and other affected nationals, while U.S. aid workers in Congo are quarantined in Kenya amid Ebola-related restrictions.

Ebola Update: WHO says the DR Congo Ebola outbreak has surged past 2,100 confirmed cases, with insecurity and community resistance slowing response and even attacking treatment sites as it spreads across five provinces. Border Crisis: Central Equatoria State urged urgent action to restore calm after alleged UPDF–SSPDF clashes in Kajo-Keji displaced over 10,000 civilians, with Bishop Joseph Abba calling for humanitarian help. Aviation Upgrade: President Salva Kiir officially inaugurated Juba International Airport Terminal 3, calling it a major step toward modern, safer air transport and urging accountability in public contracts. Elections & Security: Western Equatoria Governor Badagbu directed county commissioners to prioritize security and election preparations for the 22 December 2026 polls, while civil society leader Edmund Yakani urged South Sudanese to reject hate speech ahead of voting. Cost of Living: Motorists and commuters decried renewed fuel price hikes, with petrol rising sharply in Juba and Yambio and fears of higher transport and food costs. Digital Skills: Youth in Yei completed digital literacy training on responsible internet use and fighting misinformation. Travel Rules: South Sudan published visa fees for Nigerians and a visa-free entry list for eligible African countries.

Humanitarian Crisis at Kajo-Keji Border: The Episcopal Diocese of Liwolo says UPDF-linked hostilities have displaced about 10,000 civilians, with families sheltering around St. Paul Cathedral and local schools and facing urgent needs for food, water, shelter and medical care. Fuel Prices Bite Hard: Motorists and commuters in Juba and Yambio report petrol hikes to SSP 18,500–20,000 per litre, with black-market prices even higher, pushing up transport and food costs. Local Security Response: Tonj South County convened an extraordinary meeting with payam directors to tackle rising insecurity, including plans to coordinate forces and manage resources. Elections and Civic Space: Civil society leader Edmund Yakani urged South Sudanese to reject hate speech and inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the December 2026 elections, while UJoSS called for stronger journalist protection. Infrastructure Milestone: President Salva Kiir inaugurated Terminal 3 at Juba International Airport, calling it a major step toward modernising aviation. Oil Financing Update: A partial settlement with BB Energy eased a London court block on new oil-backed loan deals, though the dispute highlights continued reliance on future crude revenues. Regional Health Watch: Uganda’s Ebola-free countdown begins after discharging its last patient, as DR Congo’s outbreak continues to worsen and South Sudan remains under U.S. Level 4 travel warnings.

Elections & Governance: South Sudan’s December 2026 polls are being framed as a chance to move from “politics of survival” to service and accountability, but opinion writers warn the real test is whether institutions can deliver credible, inclusive participation. Disability Inclusion: A disability affairs director argues the election must guarantee equal voting access for people with disabilities, estimated at 1.2–1.8 million. Labour & Social Protection: Oil and NGO workers’ unions urge the government to pause the National Social Insurance Fund (NSIF) rollout, saying compulsory contributions are starting without proper governance, transparency, and systems. Oil Finance: A partial settlement with BB Energy has eased a London court bar on new oil-backed loan deals, but analysts note the bigger issue remains how much value the state actually retains from crude. Aviation: President Salva Kiir will commission Juba International Airport’s new Terminal 3 on Thursday, aimed at boosting international arrivals and departures. Border Tensions: Clashes between SSPDF and UPDF erupted in Kajo-Keji over disputed areas, raising fears of wider instability. Public Safety: A hyena attack in Rumbek North injured two boys after entering a family home during heavy rain. Health & Travel Warnings: The U.S. lists South Sudan under Level 4 “Do Not Travel” amid security and health concerns as Ebola risks continue to dominate the region. Humanitarian Outlook: UN agencies warn Eastern Africa needs urgent help, with South Sudan among countries facing worsening food insecurity and Ebola-related spread risk.

Elections & Media Readiness: AMDISS with Norwegian People’s Aid launched a three-day training in Bor to strengthen ethical, conflict-sensitive and gender-responsive election reporting as South Sudan heads toward its first general polls since 2011. Labour & Social Protection: Workers’ unions are urging the government to pause the National Social Insurance Fund (NSIF) rollout, saying it is being implemented before key legal and governance structures are ready. Aviation Upgrade: Transport Minister Rizik Zakaria Hassan says President Salva Kiir will commission Juba Airport’s new Terminal 3 on Thursday, a push to modernize air travel and boost connectivity. Border Tensions: SSPDF and UPDF clashed in Kajo-Keji over a disputed border area, with Uganda demanding withdrawal of South Sudan forces. Humanitarian Pressure: UN OCHA warns Eastern Africa needs urgent help, citing 48.5 million people requiring assistance in 2026 and highlighting rising food insecurity and Ebola spillover risk. Drought Response: WFP and the government activated South Sudan’s first drought anticipatory action plan for over 65,000 people in Eastern Equatoria with cash support and early warnings. Fuel Cost Strain: Western Equatoria residents and boda-boda riders report fuel price jumps that are driving up transport costs and worsening hardship. Deportation Fears: More than 20 South Sudanese face deportation from Sudan after a court order in Al-Dabbah, Northern State. Regional Cooperation: South Sudan and Kenya reaffirmed plans to strengthen border security and immigration management in talks in Nairobi.