AGP Executive Report

Cybercrime & Media Freedom: South Sudan has started implementing the Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, 2026, with authorities saying it will strengthen cybersecurity ahead of the December 2026 elections—while civil society warns vague wording and harsh penalties could curb freedom of expression and intimidate journalists. Elections Prep Under Pressure: Civil society leader Edmund Yakani says voter registration may be hit by delayed funding and insecurity, threatening recruitment, materials procurement, and staff payments across the country’s constituencies. Football Development: South Sudan Football Federation president Francis Amin Michael met FIFA chief Gianni Infantino in New York to push for faster football growth, including plans for the country’s first Women’s Premier League. Sports Spotlight: D’Tigers assistant captain Michael Eric says Nigeria is targeting a 2027 FIBA World Cup spot, with South Sudan listed among rivals in the next qualifying window. Health & Safety: South Sudan’s Ministry of Health says 10 suspected Ebola cases tested negative, but stresses the risk of importation remains high in border counties. Culture & Commemoration: The Ministry of Culture says there will be no government budget for this year’s Martyrs’ Day (30 July), urging candlelight vigils and prayers instead.

Football Development: South Sudan Football Federation president Francis Amin Michael met FIFA boss Gianni Infantino in New York to push faster football growth, including plans for the country’s first Women’s Premier League and new infrastructure and talent programmes. Cyber & Media Freedom: South Sudan has started enforcing its controversial Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, 2026, with officials saying it will protect digital systems, while journalists’ groups warn it could be used to curb free expression ahead of December elections. Health Update: South Sudan’s Ministry of Health says all 10 suspected Ebola cases tested negative, but stresses the risk of importation remains high for border counties. Local Arts & Culture: The Ministry of Culture, Museums and National Heritage says there will be no government budget for this year’s Martyrs’ Day (30 July), urging candlelight vigils and prayers instead. Sports Spotlight: China’s women’s team eyes a repeat of their Sydney success as they head to Berlin for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026, with South Sudan noted in their qualifying run. Humanitarian Accountability: Save the Children confirms vehicles branded with its name were seized in Jonglei and are being misused by armed actors, saying they’ve been out of its control since January.

Football Development: South Sudan Football Federation president Francis Amin Michael met FIFA boss Gianni Infantino in New York to push faster growth of the sport, including plans to launch the country’s first Women’s Premier League, with FIFA pledging continued technical and financial support. Media Freedom: UJOSS is calling for stronger protection for journalists ahead of December 2026 elections, warning that censorship, intimidation and vague “national security” interpretations could damage election credibility. Cyber Law & Speech: South Sudan has started enforcing the Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, 2026, with officials saying it will improve cybersecurity, while critics fear it could be used to curb legitimate online expression. Health Update: South Sudan’s Ministry of Health says 10 suspected Ebola cases tested negative, but stresses import risk remains high for border counties. Culture & Commemoration: Martyrs’ Day (30 July) will proceed without a government budget, with the Culture Ministry urging candlelight vigils and prayers despite economic constraints. Humanitarian Accountability: Save the Children says vehicles branded in social media images used by armed actors in Jonglei were seized from the NGO earlier this year and have not been under its control since.

Heritage Under Threat: UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee meets in Busan next week and may fast-track South Sudan’s Boma–Badingilo Migratory Landscape for “in danger” status, citing insecurity, poaching, development pressure and legal protection gaps. Press Freedom & Elections: Journalists in Juba are calling for stronger media protection ahead of December 2026 polls, warning that censorship and vague “national security” rules can weaken election credibility. Cybercrime Law Starts Biting: South Sudan has begun enforcing its controversial Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, with officials saying it will curb online crime, while critics fear it could be used to restrict free speech. Humanitarian Reality Check: Save the Children says a branded vehicle seen with armed actors in Jonglei was seized from the charity earlier this year and has been out of its control since. Digital Skills for Youth: In Yei, the Internet Society trained youth on responsible internet use, digital communication and spotting misinformation. Music Buzz: AFRIMMA 2026 nominees are out, with Davido leading the pack and other big names like Burna Boy and Tyla also in the mix.

Ebola Watch (DRC): WHO says the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surged past 2,100 confirmed cases, with conflict, insecurity, and community resistance slowing response and even attacks on treatment sites reported. South Sudan Health Update: South Sudan’s Ministry of Health confirms the country remains Ebola-free after 10 suspected cases tested negative, but warns import risk stays high for border counties. Media & Civic Space: South Sudan’s journalists’ union (UJOSS) calls for stronger protection and clearer rules ahead of December 2026 elections, warning censorship and intimidation could damage credibility. Press Freedom (IPC): International Press Centre boss Lanre Arogundade is elected to IFEX’s 2026–2029 council, highlighting ongoing work on journalist safety and information integrity. Culture & Commemoration: The Ministry of Culture says there’s no government budget for Martyrs’ Day this year, urging candlelight vigils instead. Digital Skills (Yei): Internet Society trains youth in Yei on responsible internet use and spotting misinformation. Humanitarian Accountability (Jonglei): Save the Children denies links to a branded vehicle seen with armed actors, saying it was seized earlier and has been out of its control. Music (AFRIMMA): AFRIMMA 2026 nominees are out, with Davido leading the pack and other big names like Burna Boy and Tyla also in the mix. Elections & Security (Western Equatoria): Governor Badagbu orders county commissioners to prioritize security and election preparations for 22 December 2026.

Humanitarian Accountability: Save the Children says a branded vehicle seen with armed actors in Jonglei was seized from it in January and has been out of its control since, after attacks looted and burned its Walgak office and destroyed a health centre. Digital Skills for Youth: In Yei River County, Internet Society South Sudan trained youth and community leaders over three days on responsible internet use, digital communication, and spotting misinformation and hate speech. Ebola Update (DRC): WHO warns the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak is outpacing response, with cases now above 2,000 and insecurity and community resistance slowing access to affected areas. Music Spotlight (AFRIMMA): AFRIMMA 2026 nominees are out, with Davido leading the pack and the awards set to return in Dallas on September 12, 2026. Sports & Talent: Photos and coverage highlight 7’6” South Sudanese-Australian basketball prospect Jongkuch “JK” Mach, drawing NCAA interest. Aviation Milestone: President Salva Kiir is set to commission Juba Airport’s new Terminal 3, aimed at boosting international travel and connectivity.

AFRIMMA Music Buzz: Davido leads the 2026 African Muzik Magazine Awards nominations with five nods, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for 5ive, while Burna Boy, Black Sherif and Diamond Platnumz follow with four each and Tyla tops the female contenders with three; the awards return after a two-year break and will include a Dallas music festival on Sept 12. Digital Skills for Youth: The Internet Society trained 48 young people in Yei River County on responsible internet use, digital communication, and safe social media—aiming to cut misinformation and cyber-related harm. Media Freedom Ahead of Elections: UJoSS urged stronger protection for journalists ahead of South Sudan’s December 2026 polls, warning that censorship and intimidation could weaken a credible vote. Aviation Upgrade: President Salva Kiir is set to inaugurate Juba Airport’s new Terminal 3, a push to modernize travel and boost connectivity. Sports Spotlight: Photos and reports are circulating about 18-year-old South Sudanese-Australian basketball prospect Jongkuch “JK” Mach, measured at 7 ft 6 in.

Aviation & Infrastructure: Transport Minister Rizik Zakaria Hassan says President Salva Kiir will inaugurate Juba International Airport’s new Terminal 3 on Thursday, after briefings on final readiness—another push to boost international connectivity. Border & Security: Clashes between SSPDF and UPDF erupted in Kajo-Keji’s Nandejo area after Uganda’s Yumbe RDC demanded troop withdrawal from disputed spots, with fighting reported to have lasted into the evening. Elections & Media: AMDISS and Norwegian People’s Aid launched a three-day Bor workshop training journalists on ethical, conflict-sensitive, gender-responsive election reporting ahead of South Sudan’s 2026 polls. Music & Entertainment: AFRIMMA 2026 nominees are out after a two-year break, with Davido leading on five nods; the awards and new Dallas music festival are set for September 12. Oil & Economy: A partial settlement between South Sudan and BB Energy eases a London court restriction tied to a US$140m oil-backed debt dispute, highlighting how much the country still depends on future crude value. Sports: D’Tigers’ rebound in FIBA World Cup qualifiers drew attention as regional basketball action heats up.

Juba Airport Upgrade: Transport Minister Rizik Zakaria Hassan says President Salva Kiir will commission the new Terminal 3 at Juba International Airport on Thursday, a push to boost international travel and trade links. Border Tensions: Clashes between SSPDF and UPDF erupted in Kajo-Keji over a disputed border area, with Uganda demanding troop withdrawal and fighting reported around Nandejo. Music Spotlight (AFRIMMA): AFRIMMA returns after a two-year break with Davido leading nominations and a new Dallas music festival plus fashion and food showcases; South Sudan’s Single Dee is listed among East Africa nominees. Media for Elections: AMDISS and NPA launched a three-day ethical election reporting training in Bor, urging journalists to stay fair, conflict-sensitive, and gender-responsive. Regional Cooperation: South Sudan and Kenya met in Nairobi to strengthen border security and improve immigration processes for smoother movement of people and goods. Education & AI: Prof. Isaac Ayii warns South Sudan’s education system must adapt to AI or risk producing graduates who can’t find work. Security Update: SSPDF says it has recaptured Lankien in Nyirol County after fighting with SPLA-IO, with residents beginning to return.

AI & Humanitarian Response: At the AI for Good summit, the World Food Programme showcased “SHERP” AI-assisted all-terrain vehicles to deliver aid in hard-to-reach conflict and disaster zones, with real trials planned in Uganda in 2028. Peace & Parliament: South Sudan MPs signed a church-facilitated Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) with HWPL, renewing commitments to prevent conflict and push reconciliation. Education & Jobs: Prof. Isaac Ayii warns South Sudan’s education system must adapt to AI fast, or risk producing graduates who can’t find work. Music & Recognition: AFRIMMA 2026 nominations spotlight regional talent, including South Sudan’s Single Dee in the Best Male East Africa category, with voting now open ahead of the September 12 awards in Dallas. Sports & Community: Imagine Academy athletes swept honours at a “Run for Peace and Development” marathon in Juba, backed by the Israeli Embassy and local youth sports officials. Church Music: A Catholic bishop urged choirs to keep sacred music alive as a source of unity and hope during conflict. Media & Trust: A training programme for journalists stressed using AI to support reporting—not replace editorial judgment—to fight misinformation. Public Health Watch: WHO says the DRC Ebola outbreak is far larger than official figures, as cases spread to more provinces. Banking Labour: Bank of South Sudan workers resumed a strike after the governor dissolved their trade union, escalating a dispute over benefits and arrears.

AI in Education: Ayii University’s Prof. Isaac Ayii says South Sudan must overhaul its education curriculum to match AI-driven job changes, warning graduates could end up jobless if schools don’t adapt. Media & Trust: A China International Communication Group training urged journalists across developing countries, including South Sudan, to use AI responsibly and avoid misinformation. Music & Awards: Tanzania leads East Africa at AFRIMMA 2026 with 11 nominations, including major names like Diamond Platnumz and Zuchu; South Sudan’s Single Dee is listed among Best Male East Africa contenders. Sports & Youth: Imagine Academy athletes dominated a “Run for Peace and Development” marathon in Juba, with Paul Lokoro and Rose Nakang taking top honours. Church Music: A Catholic bishop in Tombura-Yambio urged choirs to keep sacred music alive as a source of unity, peace, and hope during conflict. Banking Labour: Bank of South Sudan workers resumed a strike after the governor dissolved their trade union, escalating a dispute over benefits and arrears.

SSBC Media Shake-up: President Salva Kiir dissolved and replaced the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation board on 7 July, naming new leadership by presidential order and sparking fresh rule-of-law and media-freedom concerns. Sports for Peace: Imagine Academy athletes dominated the “Run for Peace and Development” marathon in Juba, with organisers and the Israeli Embassy framing running as unity across tribes. Church Music & Hope: A Catholic bishop in Tombura-Yambio urged choirs to keep sacred music alive as a force for unity and hope during conflict. Independence-Era Culture: South Sudan’s 15 years of independence drew renewed calls for peace and better governance, including debate around elections and political detainees. DRC Ebola Watch: Ebola in the DRC spread to Haut-Uele and Tshopo, pushing confirmed cases higher as health teams intensify response efforts. Labour Tension at BoSS: The Bank of South Sudan dissolved its workers’ union after a staff sit-in, with employees disputing the move as unlawful. Border Business Alert: Nimule customs warned clearing agents against revenue fraud, threatening license withdrawal for violations. Music Awards Buzz: Kenyan artists Nikita Kering, Njerae, Bridgit Blue and Bien landed AFRIMMA 2026 nominations, with voting now open for the Dallas event on Sept 12.

South Sudan Independence & Church Music: The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio urged choirs to “keep this beautiful tradition alive,” saying sacred music has long helped communities hold onto unity, peace, and hope during conflict. Sports for Peace: Imagine Academy athletes dominated the “Run for Peace and Development” marathon in Juba, with Paul Lokoro and Rose Nakang taking top honours as the event pushed healthy living and community cohesion. Juba Peace Marathon Spotlight: The race drew hundreds of runners and officials, with the Israeli ambassador framing running as a symbol of unity across tribes. Labour & Media in Focus: Bank of South Sudan dissolved its workers’ trade union after a staff sit-in, while China International Communication Group opened a three-week training for mainstream media practitioners including South Sudanese participants. Ebola Update (DRC): Ebola spread further in the DRC, reaching Haut-Uele and Tshopo, as cases and deaths continued to rise. Local Governance: Juba City Council talks with hotel operators over waste collection fees sparked a wider debate on turning waste into resources. Regional Travel Rules: UK tightened visa requirements for travellers from South Sudan and other African countries, including those transiting through UK airports. Sports Roundup (Region): Vipers SC landed in a tough Group A for the CECAFA Kagame Cup, while South Sudan’s Jamus SC was placed in Group B. Workers’ Rights & Exams: Opinion pieces and reporting highlighted exam fee burdens on families and ongoing delays in results, alongside the union dispute at the bank.

Independence & Politics: As South Sudan marks 15 years since independence, citizens and commentators keep pointing to unresolved power struggles and the need for dialogue ahead of elections, with renewed calls for peace and a more inclusive political future. National Security: A fire that destroyed part of the NSS Blue House has sparked public concern and demands for a thorough, impartial investigation—plus stronger safety checks across critical government facilities. Culture & Identity: The Bari community marked Jubek Day with fresh appeals to preserve the Bari language and heritage, framing culture as a tool for peace and unity. Sports: Uganda’s Vipers SC learned their CECAFA Kagame Cup group rivals, while South Sudan’s Jamus SC also got a place in the draw—setting up a busy regional football run. Humanitarian & Climate: WFP and the South Sudan government launched the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan in Eastern Equatoria, using early warning and cash support to protect tens of thousands. Regional Health: Ebola updates from the DRC show rising deaths and expanding spread, with South Sudan’s region still watching closely. Media & Training: China International Communication Group opened a three-week training for mainstream media practitioners including South Sudanese participants, focused on shaping narratives and media exchanges.

Independence & Youth Voices: South Sudan marks 15 years since independence with citizens pushing for lasting peace, dialogue, and credible December 2026 elections, while Save the Children’s Eye Radio show lets children quiz leaders on education, conflict, and the future. Independence Day Moments: Malith Dak Deng, long believed to be the country’s tallest man, finally meets President Salva Kiir during the anniversary celebrations. Security Update (Eastern Equatoria): An advisor to the Eastern Equatoria government survived an ambush on the Kapoeta–Torit Road and was airlifted to Juba; authorities say his condition is stable. Culture & Identity: The Bari community marks Jubek Day with renewed calls to preserve the Bari language and heritage as a tool for peace and unity. Humanitarian & Climate Response: WFP and the government activate South Sudan’s first drought anticipatory action plan, delivering cash and early warning support to tens of thousands in Budi and Kapoeta North. Media & Training: China International Communication Group opens a three-week training for mainstream media practitioners including participants from South Sudan. Sports (Regional): Uganda’s Vipers are drawn into a tough CECAFA Kagame Cup group, while South Sudan’s Jamus SC lands in the defending champions’ Group B.

Independence Anniversary (South Sudan): South Sudan marks 15 years since 9 July 2011, but many citizens say the real wish is lasting peace through dialogue and a credible democratic transition ahead of December 2026 elections. Local Security: Eastern Equatoria’s advisor on special programs survived a Kapoeta–Torit Road ambush after gunmen attacked his convoy; he was airlifted to Juba and reported stable. Elections Readiness: Civil society groups in Juba tell an African Union delegation that preparations for the planned polls are strained by insecurity, unclear election laws, and insufficient funding for the National Elections Commission. Culture & Identity: The Bari community celebrates Jubek Day with renewed calls to preserve the Bari language and cultural heritage as a tool for peace and unity. Humanitarian & Climate: WFP and the South Sudan government launch the country’s first drought anticipatory action plan in Eastern Equatoria, triggering cash support and early warning communications for tens of thousands. Sports: Uganda’s Vipers are drawn into a tough CECAFA Kagame Cup group, while South Sudan’s Jamus SC lands in Group B. Media & Arts (Regional): China International Communication Group opens a three-week training for mainstream media practitioners including participants from South Sudan, aiming to reshape narratives about China’s development.