Food Security: Drought is tightening supplies and pushing up prices in the region, with Kenya’s maize and beans costs rising in July as harvest losses worsen. Regional Trade & Peace: Upper Nile is preparing a peace and reconciliation conference (Aug 24–30) to restore movement and trade after tensions disrupt local economies. Sovereignty & Elections Debate: The People’s Coalition for Civil Action (PCCA) says sovereignty belongs to South Sudanese people, warning that elections can’t be credible without real reforms. Youth & Local Business Protection: The National Youth Union chairperson is calling for stronger protection of young entrepreneurs after alleged threats from a foreign firm over locally made electricity poles. Diplomacy & Investment Links: South Sudan’s parliament approved a cooperation accord with Saudi Arabia, targeting agriculture, education, mining and infrastructure. Bilateral Talks: President Salva Kiir is in South Africa for talks with President Cyril Ramaphosa on electoral timelines, dialogue and economic cooperation. Health Supply Chain: A new central medical store in Gombo was inaugurated to strengthen health commodity availability, backed by UNDP/UNICEF and Global Fund financing. Entrepreneurship: Inkomoko South Sudan awarded certificates to 1,225 women and youth entrepreneurs after a six-month business training programme. Ebola Preparedness: ECSA-HC launched a six-month emergency response along DRC border trade and migration corridors, including South Sudan, to speed detection and isolation at points of entry.