AGP Executive Report

Women-led peacebuilding: South Sudan launched a three-year UN Women/UNESCO-backed project to strengthen women and young people’s roles in peacebuilding in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el Ghazal, targeting 2,100 women and girls with leadership support, community peace structures, and economic empowerment. Water security: South Sudan inaugurated Egypt-funded solar “Somba” groundwater station at Juba University, part of a wider programme delivering 28 solar-powered drinking water stations meant to serve thousands of families and improve local health and environmental conditions. Heritage under threat: UNESCO is set to consider adding sites “in danger” from war and climate change, with South Sudan’s Boma–Badingilo migratory landscape among the candidates—raising stakes for wildlife corridors and savanna ecosystems. Digital environment & rights: South Sudan began implementing its Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, 2026, with authorities citing cybersecurity gains while critics warn it could curb online speech ahead of December elections. Connectivity & climate resilience: The National Communication Authority started work on a National Spectrum Management and 5G Strategy to improve digital connectivity and investment conditions, including cybersecurity and network quality. Security pressures: Two wildlife service personnel were killed in a cattle camp attack in Jur River, underscoring ongoing threats to people and animals.

Water & Health: South Sudan inaugurated Egypt-funded “Somba” solar groundwater station at Juba University, part of 28 similar stations meant to supply safe drinking water for students, staff and nearby communities. Heritage Under Threat: UNESCO is set to consider adding South Sudan’s Boma–Badingilo migratory landscape to the World Heritage List and possibly the “in danger” register, citing conflict and climate pressures alongside other threatened sites. Digital Environment & Rights: The government has begun enforcing South Sudan’s Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, 2026, with officials citing cybersecurity gains while critics warn vague wording could curb online speech and target journalists. Energy & Investment: The African Energy Chamber renewed its push to attract investment into South Sudan’s oil and beyond-oil sectors, as the country seeks reforms to revive production and expand refining, gas and power. Connectivity & Climate Resilience: South Sudan started developing a National Spectrum Management and 5G Strategy, aiming for better digital connectivity while also addressing cybersecurity and network quality. Security & Livelihoods: Armed youth attacked a cattle camp in Jur River, killing two security personnel and raiding cattle—another reminder of how insecurity hits wildlife protection and rural livelihoods. Economy & Environment Link: Analysts warn the weakening South Sudanese pound is worsening the cost of living because the country relies heavily on imported food, fuel and medicines.

Cyber & Digital Rights: South Sudan has begun enforcing its Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, 2026, with officials saying it will protect critical digital infrastructure—while critics warn it could be used to curb dissent ahead of December elections. Wildlife & Security: Two security personnel were killed in a cattle camp attack in Jur River, with raiders also stealing 21 head of cattle—raising pressure on protection for people and wildlife-linked livelihoods. Climate & Food Risk: A new warning flags a Greater Horn polycrisis risk for late 2026–2027, driven by weak rains, conflict, and price shocks that could deepen hunger across South Sudan and neighbours. Connectivity & Environment: The National Communication Authority started work on a National Spectrum Management and 5G Strategy, aiming for better digital connectivity plus cybersecurity and investment conditions. Energy Investment: The African Energy Chamber renewed efforts to attract capital for South Sudan’s oil sector revival, including refining and power—key for long-term energy security. Infrastructure & Livelihoods: Unity State launched rehabilitation of the Mayom–Mankien–Ajakuach road to improve movement of goods and services. Humanitarian Border Crisis: Kajo-Keji’s Episcopal Diocese appealed for urgent aid after renewed fighting displaced about 10,000 people, stressing needs for water, shelter, sanitation, and medicines. Governance & Peace: Kiir urged SPLM leaders and governors to intensify peace and security work for December elections, while Western Equatoria commissioners were told to prioritize dialogue and voter education.

Energy & Investment: The African Energy Chamber says it will keep pushing South Sudan as a frontier energy destination after a high-level visit to Juba focused on reforms across the oil value chain, including refining, natural gas, power and infrastructure. Digital Connectivity: South Sudan has started work on a National Spectrum Management and 5G Strategy, with a roadmap that also targets cybersecurity, network quality and investment conditions. Oil Market Cooperation: South Sudan joined an OPEC+ technical meeting in Azerbaijan to discuss energy policy and market stability, arguing stable prices matter for a country reliant on oil revenues. Trade Integration: AfCFTA officials urged South Sudan to fast-track ratification so businesses can access a wider continental market. Roads & Livelihoods: Unity State launched rehabilitation of the Mayom–Mankien–Ajakuach Road to improve movement of goods and services and strengthen links to Juba. Wildlife & Human Safety: Two security personnel were killed in a cattle camp attack in Jur River; authorities say attackers also raided 21 head of cattle. Public Health & Climate Risk: A UN-backed warning highlights El Niño-linked climate shocks across the Greater Horn, with South Sudan named among countries at high risk. Biodiversity & Conflict Impacts: A hyena attack in Rumbek North injured two boys, underscoring how extreme weather can bring wildlife into homes. Governance & Elections: SPLM membership registration is underway in Central Equatoria as leaders push for peace and security ahead of the December 2026 elections. Media Freedom: Journalists’ group UJOSS calls for stronger protection and clearer rules as elections approach.

Aviation & Infrastructure: President Salva Kiir officially opened Terminal Three at Juba International Airport, calling it a major upgrade toward “safe, secure, and sustainable” air transport and urging officials to improve contract due diligence and value for public funds. Humanitarian Displacement: The Episcopal Diocese of Liwolo in Kajo-Keji appealed for urgent aid after armed hostilities displaced about 10,000 people, with families sheltering around St. Paul Cathedral and local schools and facing urgent needs including safe water, shelter, sanitation, medicines, and protection. Climate Risk & Food Security: WFP and South Sudan launched the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan in Eastern Equatoria, targeting 65,000+ people with cash support, early warning messages, and guidance on drought preparedness, livestock management, and water use. Wildlife & Public Health: A hyena attack in Rumbek North injured two boys and killed livestock during heavy rain, highlighting the growing pressure on households as people shelter animals indoors. Digital Skills for Youth: Internet Society trained youth in Yei on responsible internet use and safe social media, linking digital access to education and jobs. Health Security: A regional warning grows as Uganda moves toward being declared Ebola-free while DR Congo’s outbreak worsens, raising the risk of cross-border spread. Governance & Social Protection: Oil and NGO workers’ unions urged the government to pause NSIF rollout, saying compulsory contributions should not start before governance, transparency, and systems are in place.

Drought early action: WFP and the Government of South Sudan launched the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan in Eastern Equatoria, targeting 65,000+ people with cash support, early warning messages, and guidance on drought preparedness, livestock management, and water use. Climate risk: A UN-backed report flags Eastern Africa as a major humanitarian hotspot, with 48.5 million people needing help in 2026 and South Sudan among the places seeing sharp increases in severe hunger, alongside Ebola spread risk from DR Congo. Food prices & fuel pressure: Editorials push for stronger local food production to curb rising prices and call for urgent government steps to tackle soaring fuel costs that are driving up transport and commodity prices. Health & borders: Uganda discharged its last Ebola patient and begins a 42-day countdown to be declared Ebola-free, while DR Congo’s outbreak continues to worsen—prompting new travel restrictions that also affect some travelers from South Sudan. Oil governance: Unions in South Sudan’s oil and other sectors demand a pause on the NSIF rollout, saying compulsory contributions should not start until governance, transparency, and systems are in place. Elections & civic space: UJOSS calls for stronger journalist protection ahead of December 2026 elections, warning that censorship and intimidation could undermine a credible vote. Digital inclusion: Internet Society training in Yei River County builds youth skills for responsible internet and safer online communication. Wildlife & safety: A hyena attack in Rumbek North injured two boys after entering a home during heavy rain. Peacebuilding: MPs signed a church-facilitated Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War, renewing commitments to reconciliation.

El Niño and climate shocks: The UN says Kenya—and also South Sudan—faces high risk from El Niño-linked climate shocks in late 2026 to early 2027, with heavy rains expected from November and a warning that the event could be the strongest on record; the UN plans to release up to $100m from its emergency fund to help countries “invest in resilience.” Drought preparedness in South Sudan: WFP and the government launched South Sudan’s first drought anticipatory action plan in Eastern Equatoria (Budi and Kapoeta North), targeting 65,000+ people with cash support, early warning messages, and guidance on drought preparedness, livestock management, and water use. Food insecurity across Eastern Africa: UN OCHA warns 48.5m people need help in Eastern Africa in 2026, driven by conflict, displacement, climate shocks, disease, and food insecurity, with South Sudan among the biggest increases in severe hunger. Wildlife and public safety: South Sudan’s wildlife authorities rescued two warthogs kept in a Juba home and warned residents not to keep protected animals as pets; in Rumbek North, a hyena attack injured two boys during heavy rain. Community environment action: Aweil East youth launched a 15-day “patriotism” clean-up campaign to improve sanitation and public health in major towns. Livestock and rangelands: The government says it will expand veterinary services nationwide, linking animal health, rangelands, and wildlife conservation to food security and market access. Oil workers push back on social insurance: Unions in the oil sector and beyond urged the government to suspend NSIF rollout, arguing governance and transparency systems are not ready—an issue that can affect workers’ resilience during climate and economic stress.

Labour & Social Protection: South Sudan workers’ unions are calling for a pause on the NSIF rollout, saying the National Social Insurance Fund Act 2023 is being implemented before key legal, institutional and governance structures are ready. Drought & Food Security: WFP and the government launched South Sudan’s first drought anticipatory action plan in Budi and Kapoeta North, targeting 65,000+ people with cash support and early warning to help families protect food, livelihoods and livestock. Humanitarian Pressure: UN OCHA warns Eastern Africa needs urgent help in 2026, citing 48.5 million people requiring assistance, with South Sudan among the biggest increases in severe hunger and Ebola risk from the DRC. Wildlife Protection: Wildlife authorities in Juba seized two warthogs kept illegally in a home, warning residents that protected animals can’t be kept as pets without permission. Public Health & Environment: Aweil East youth kicked off a 15-day clean-up campaign to improve sanitation and reduce public health risks in major towns. Livestock Economy: The government plans expanded veterinary services through a national dialogue on rangelands, pastoralism and wildlife conservation, linking animal health to food security and markets. Waste & Cities: Juba City Council’s waste fee discussions are framed as a chance to treat garbage as a resource, not just an expense. Community Health Access: Rotary Wau donated four rickshaw ambulances to Twic County to improve emergency transport for remote and displaced communities. Drought-Driven Displacement: Eastern Equatoria families in Imehejek are fleeing failed crops and hunger as drought deepens, with calls for rapid assessments and support. Seed Systems & Resilience: An FAO webinar highlights digital tools to strengthen seed systems in South Sudan and the region, aiming for better access to quality, climate-resilient seed. Election Media Ethics: NPA-backed training in Bor focuses on ethical, conflict-sensitive and gender-responsive election reporting as South Sudan prepares for polls.

Peacebuilding & Conflict Risk: South Sudan MPs signed a church-facilitated Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War, backed by HWPL, aiming to prevent conflict and push peaceful dispute resolution. Drought & Food Security: In Eastern Equatoria’s Imehejek, prolonged drought is driving crop failure and displacement, with families abandoning farms and relying on wild foods. Early Action for Climate Shocks: WFP and the government launched South Sudan’s first drought anticipatory action plan, using cash transfers and early warning support for 65,000 people in Budi and Kapoeta North. Wildlife Protection: Wildlife authorities in Juba seized two warthogs kept illegally at a private home, warning residents that protected animals can’t be kept as pets without permission. Public Health & Clean Cities: Aweil East youth kicked off a 15-day “patriotism” clean-up campaign to improve sanitation and reduce health risks in urban centres. Livestock & Rangelands: The government plans to expand veterinary services nationwide, linking animal health, rangeland management, and pastoralism to food security and markets. Waste & Environment: Juba City Council consulted hotels on a proposed waste fee hike, with an argument that the real opportunity is turning waste into reusable resources instead of open dumping.

Drought Early Action: WFP and the South Sudan government have launched the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan, targeting over 65,000 people in Budi and Kapoeta North with cash transfers and early warning support to protect food security before conditions worsen. Sanitation & Waste: Juba City Council is consulting hotels and hospitality operators on proposed solid waste collection fee changes, as the city tries to improve sanitation and keep the capital clean. Wildlife Enforcement: South Sudan wildlife authorities seized two warthogs kept illegally in captivity in Juba, warning residents that keeping wild animals at home without authorization is prohibited. Community Cleanliness: Aweil East County youth launched a 15-day “Patriotism” clean-up campaign to boost public health and sanitation in major towns. Peace Through Public Life: Imagine Academy and partners held a “Run for Peace and Development” marathon in Juba, using sport to promote unity and healthy living. Independence & Peace Calls: Catholic bishops marked 15 years of independence with renewed appeals for peace, dialogue, and reconciliation amid ongoing insecurity. Energy Connectivity: Ethiopia and Kenya signed a new electricity supply deal to strengthen regional power trade and support sustainable development. Climate Policy Debate: A global op-ed argues climate talks are failing and calls for a serious fossil fuel phaseout to make a fair energy transition possible.

Drought Preparedness: WFP and the South Sudan government have launched the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan, targeting over 65,000 people in Budi and Kapoeta North with early warning support and cash transfers to protect food security before conditions worsen. Wildlife Protection: Juba wildlife authorities seized two warthogs kept illegally in a private home, warning residents that keeping wild animals without authorization is prohibited and can endanger both people and the animals. Urban Sanitation: Juba City Council has started consultations with hotels and hospitality operators over proposed solid waste collection fee changes, aiming to improve sanitation while addressing business concerns about higher charges. Independence & Peace Amid Crisis: Catholic bishops appealed for peace as South Sudan marked 15 years of independence, with calls for dialogue and reconciliation in violence-hit Warrap. Regional Energy Link: Ethiopia and Kenya signed a new electricity supply deal to boost cross-border power trade and strengthen East Africa’s energy connectivity.

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 early warning support and cash transfers so families can protect food and livelihoods before conditions worsen. Urban sanitation: Juba City Council is consulting hotels and other hospitality operators on proposed solid waste collection fee changes, aiming to improve sanitation while addressing business concerns about higher charges. Peace through community action: Imagine Academy athletes swept top honours at Juba’s “Run for Peace and Development” marathon, with organisers linking sport to unity and community cohesion. Independence and youth voice: Save the Children launched a children’s radio programme on Eye Radio where young people ask leaders questions on education, conflict and the future—highlighting how floods and fighting still shape daily life. Agriculture for food security: The agriculture minister urged farmers to grow crops suited to local conditions to strengthen value chains and boost sustainable food production. Ebola update: Ebola in DRC has spread to two more provinces, with confirmed cases rising to 1,926.

Drought Preparedness: WFP and South Sudan’s government have activated the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan for Budi and Kapoeta North, targeting 65,000+ people with cash support and early warning messages to protect food and livelihoods before conditions worsen. Local Waste & Sanitation: Juba City Council has started consultations with hotels and catering businesses over proposed solid waste collection fee changes, aiming to improve sanitation while managing business concerns about higher charges. Agriculture for Food Security: The national agriculture minister urged farmers to specialize in crops suited to local conditions to strengthen value chains and boost sustainable food security, including implementing directives to reduce reliance on imported food. Independence, Peace & Stability: As South Sudan marks 15 years of independence, citizens and officials renewed calls for unity, dialogue, and security—while Western Equatoria’s governor also pushed for violence stop and the integration of eligible forces. Energy Connectivity: Ethiopia and Kenya signed a new electricity supply deal to expand reliable cross-border power trade, supporting regional development. Money & Inflation: An analysis warns that printing money to fund government spending in South Sudan can fuel inflation and weaken the SSP, raising the cost of imports.

Drought preparedness in Eastern Equatoria: The UN World Food Programme and South Sudan’s government have launched the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan for Budi and Kapoeta North, using early warning communications plus cash support for 52,751 people to protect food and livelihoods before conditions worsen. Local waste management push in Juba: Juba City Council has started consultations with hotels and catering businesses on proposed solid waste collection fee changes, aiming to improve sanitation while managing business concerns about higher charges. Independence amid calls for peace: As South Sudan marks 15 years of independence, citizens and officials urged unity, reconciliation, and a return to lasting peace—while violence and insecurity remain a major worry. Agriculture focus for food security: The agriculture minister urged farmers to specialize in crops suited to local conditions to strengthen value chains and boost sustainable food security. Regional energy connectivity: Ethiopia and Kenya signed a new electricity supply agreement to expand reliable cross-border power trade, supporting broader East African development.

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 counties to protect 65,000+ people with early warning messages and cash support before hunger worsens. Local sanitation: Juba City Council has started consultations with hotels and catering businesses on proposed solid waste collection fee changes, aiming to improve sanitation while managing business concerns about higher charges. Agriculture for food security: The national agriculture minister urged farmers to specialize in crops suited to local conditions to strengthen value chains and boost sustainable food security, with calls to follow presidential directives to reduce reliance on imported food. Independence amid climate stress: As South Sudan marks 15 years of independence, children and communities are pushing leaders to include them in decisions affecting floods, conflict, and basic services like boreholes. Security and environment risk: Independence celebrations also came with reports of renewed violence in Warrap, a reminder that conflict can quickly disrupt farming, water access, and relief delivery.

Drought preparedness: WFP and the South Sudan government have launched the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan for Budi and Kapoeta North, targeting 65,000+ people with cash support and early warning messages to protect livelihoods before dry conditions worsen. Climate risk advisory: South Sudan Meteorological Services and ICPAC warn of below-normal rainfall from June to September across much of the country, with drought, water shortages, crop failure, livestock stress, and disease risks—plus localized flooding in some areas—prompting calls for water conservation, drought-tolerant crops, livestock vaccination, and rainwater harvesting. Urban sanitation: Juba City Council has started consultations with hotels and other hospitality businesses over proposed solid waste collection fee increases, aiming to improve sanitation while addressing concerns about higher costs for operators. Agriculture focus: The agriculture minister urged farmers to specialize in crops suited to local conditions to strengthen value chains and food security, while pushing state implementation of directives meant to boost domestic production. Independence amid strain: As South Sudan marks 15 years, citizens and leaders renewed calls for peace, unity, and dialogue—against a backdrop of ongoing conflict and humanitarian pressure. Security and environment link: Reports of renewed violence and attacks during the anniversary raise risks for displaced people and access to services, including water and farming.