AGP Executive Report

AFCON in Juba: Egypt thrashed South Sudan 5-0 in a Group B qualifier at Juba, with Omar Marmoush scoring twice and goals also from Mostafa Ziko, Ibrahim Adel and Hamza Abdelkarim—Egypt moved to four points. Matchday travel note: Mohamed Salah was rested for the South Sudan trip because Juba Stadium uses artificial turf, with Egypt saying it was to “protect the player.” Border trade restart: Abyei’s Amiet Common Market reopened after a two-week shutdown following deadly Sudan–South Sudan border violence, with community peace committees agreeing on shared security and a plan to keep weapons and combat vehicles out of the market. Security watch: Ceasefire monitors (CTSAMVM) urged restraint as violence and armed youth mobilization continue to disrupt life in Jonglei, Upper Nile, Warrap and Central Equatoria, affecting movement and humanitarian access. Health support: Chinese doctors at Juba Teaching Hospital are training South Sudanese health workers in acupuncture and cupping therapy through hands-on collaboration. Road safety push: A call went out to intensify security on South Sudan’s highways to curb road ambushes that threaten traders, travelers and humanitarian deliveries. Ebola travel rules (Canada): Canada extended Ebola-related travel and immigration restrictions affecting South Sudan until Nov. 27, suspending processing for residents and adding quarantine requirements for travelers.

Ebola Travel Rules: Canada has extended Ebola-related travel and immigration restrictions for 60 more days, now running until Nov. 27, suspending immigration processing for residents of the DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan and adding quarantine rules for travellers from South Sudan and Uganda. Visa Access for South Sudanese: Singapore’s entry rules require visas for citizens of South Sudan (and several other African countries), meaning travellers must apply before visiting even if they hold other travel documents. Health & Skills Exchange: Chinese doctors at Juba Teaching Hospital are training South Sudanese health workers in acupuncture and cupping therapy through hands-on collaboration. Road Safety Push: A call is growing to intensify security on South Sudan’s highways to curb road ambushes ahead of December 2026 elections. AFCON Travel Impact: Egypt will rest Mohamed Salah for the South Sudan qualifier in Juba due to the artificial turf at Juba Stadium, with squad changes also reported. Lamu Land & Refinery: In Kenya’s Lamu, courts ordered a status quo on disputed land as residents challenge displacement linked to the Dangote refinery plans.

AfCON & Juba Stadium: Mohamed Salah will not travel with Egypt to South Sudan for the 29 September 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Juba, with the Egyptian Football Association citing concerns over the artificial turf at Juba Stadium. Road Safety & Travel Disruption: Western Equatoria’s Lui–Juba road has seen two separate attacks, with reports of more than 20 people missing after abductions and vehicles reportedly burned. Ebola Travel Rules: Canada extended Ebola-related travel and immigration restrictions for another 60 days, affecting people who are from or have visited South Sudan (along with Uganda and the DRC), including suspended visas and 21-day quarantine requirements. Health Risk for Travellers: Africa CDC warned that South Sudan is among 10 African countries at risk as the DRC Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak expands, urging stronger surveillance and preparedness at points of entry. Tourism-Linked Connectivity: Singapore’s visa policy keeps entry open for most travellers (visa-free for over 160 countries), while listing visa-required nations including South Sudan—useful for planning regional trips. Conservation & Adventure: Kidepo Valley National Park’s rangers took top honours in Uganda’s Wildlife Ranger Challenge, a reminder of the region’s growing eco-tourism appeal.

AFCON Travel Alert (Juba): Egypt’s Mohamed Salah has been left out of the 29 September AFCON qualifier in Juba after the Egyptian Football Association said the match will be played on artificial turf at Juba Stadium. Sports Tourism (Broadcast): SuperSport secured rights to beam the rest of the AFCON Pamoja 2027 qualifiers and finals across Sub-Saharan Africa, with Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda co-hosting—good news for fans planning match trips. Road Safety (Western Equatoria): Reports say more than 20 people are missing after two attacks along the Lui–Juba road, including abductions and burned vehicles—another warning for travellers using that route. Health & Travel (Ebola): The UAE eased precautionary entry and visa restrictions for Ugandan nationals after Uganda’s Ebola outbreak ended, while similar measures remain for the DRC and South Sudan. Conservation & Adventure: Kidepo Valley National Park’s rangers shone in Uganda’s Wildlife Ranger Challenge, a reminder that protected areas are also drawing visitors through events and conservation stories.

Travel Rules & Visas: Singapore keeps borders easy for most visitors, granting visa-free entry to citizens of 160+ countries, while a small visa-required list includes several African states such as Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, and even South Sudan. Football & Match Travel: Egypt will travel to Juba for the 2027 AFCON qualifier against South Sudan without Mohamed Salah, who is being rested over concerns about the artificial turf at Juba Stadium; Egypt also left out defender Mohamed Abdelmonem for similar pitch-related medical reasons. Safety on the Road: Western Equatoria reports two separate attacks along the Lui–Juba road, with more than 20 travellers reportedly missing after abductions and vehicle burnings. Ebola Travel Updates: The UAE has eased Ebola-related entry and visa restrictions for Ugandan nationals after Uganda’s outbreak ended, but keeps similar precautions in place for the DRC and South Sudan. Health Alerts for Travellers: Africa CDC warns Kenya and nine other countries are at risk as the DRC’s Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak spreads, urging stronger border surveillance and rapid response.

AFCON Travel Update (Juba): Egypt will travel to South Sudan without Mohamed Salah after the Egyptian Football Association said he’s being rested because Tuesday’s qualifier at Juba Stadium is on artificial turf. Squad News: Egypt also left out Nice defender Mohamed Abdelmonem due to knee concerns linked to playing on synthetic surfaces, and named Al Ahly forward Osama Faisal as Salah’s replacement. Road Safety (Western Equatoria): Western Equatoria authorities report more than 20 people missing after two separate attacks and abductions along the Lui–Juba road, with vehicles reportedly burned. Ebola & Travel (Regional): The UAE eased Ebola-related entry and visa restrictions on Ugandan nationals after Uganda’s outbreak ended, while keeping similar measures in place for the DRC and South Sudan; Africa CDC also warned Kenya and nine other countries, including South Sudan, are at risk as the DRC outbreak spreads. Sports (South Sudan’s Qualifiers): Malawi opened AFCON qualifying by beating South Sudan 2-1 in Lilongwe, taking early Group B leadership.

Ebola & Travel: The UAE has lifted Ebola-related entry and visa restrictions for Ugandan nationals after Uganda completed its monitoring period, but keeps precautions for travellers from the DRC and South Sudan. Flight Disruptions: A separate update flags ongoing UAE flight delays and cancellations on regional routes, with Emirates and Etihad still operating while flydubai and Air Arabia report schedule changes. Health & Tourism Safety: The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi issued a warning about a possible data breach tied to Ebola screening at Kenyan ports of entry, potentially affecting travellers’ names, passport numbers and health details. Juba Matchday Logistics: Egypt’s Mohamed Salah will miss the AFCON qualifier in Juba because the match is at Juba Stadium’s artificial turf, with Egypt citing player protection. Local Humanitarian Spotlight: Chinese medical teams marked Mid-Autumn Festival at Juba Orphanage with health check-ups, immediate treatment and donations, as children there face common illnesses like malaria and typhoid. Water Access: Türkiye Diyanet Foundation installed a solar-powered borehole in Kwerjik to supply safer drinking water for thousands, reducing reliance on dirty seasonal streams.

AfCON Travel Watch (Juba): Egypt will miss Mohamed Salah for its 29 Sept qualifier in Juba against South Sudan because the match is at an artificial-turf pitch, with the Egyptian FA saying the technical staff agreed to rest him to reduce injury risk. Matchday Momentum (South Sudan): Malawi’s Flames kicked off AfCON Pamoja 2027 qualifying with a 2-1 win over South Sudan at Bingu National Stadium, and now sit atop Group B ahead of Egypt vs Angola. Health & Safety (Ebola): The UAE pledged $10m to support Ebola response in Africa and lifted Uganda entry restrictions after the outbreak was declared over, while WHO reports Ebola in DR Congo has spread to a seventh province with deaths nearing 4,000. Travel Data Alert (Kenya): The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi warned of a possible data breach tied to Ebola screening at Kenyan ports of entry, potentially affecting traveller names, passport numbers, and health info. Local Life (Juba water): Türkiye Diyanet Foundation installed a solar-powered borehole in Kwerjik, aiming to supply about 4,000 litres of clean water daily for residents. Oil Reform Profile (Juba): A feature highlights Dr. Santino Ayuel Longar Dau, now Undersecretary in South Sudan’s Ministry of Petroleum, and his role in reforming the country’s oil sector.

Afcon Qualifiers (Malawi vs South Sudan): Malawi kicked off the 2027 Afcon Pamoja qualifiers with a 2-1 win over South Sudan at Bingu National Stadium, but the big travel-and-tourism story was the empty seats—fans stayed away despite the match under floodlights. Match Details: Babatunde Adepoju scored early, South Sudan equalised after the restart, and Lloyd Njaliwa restored Malawi’s lead in the 65th minute. Next Steps for Fans: Malawi’s Flames now travel to Angola next, while Egypt’s qualifiers include a trip to Juba to face South Sudan on 29 September. Juba Travel Context: Separately, heavy security was reported in Juba as political changes ahead of December elections increased tension, a reminder that movement planning matters. Community Water Access (Juba area): Türkiye Diyanet Foundation installed a solar-powered borehole in Kwerjik, supplying about 4,000 litres daily—good news for visitors and locals alike who rely on safer water sources. Roads & Access (Twic County): Residents in Twic County urged politicians to fix poor roads before campaigning, citing how bad routes block travel to services and emergencies.

AFCON travel buzz: Malawi’s government says backup power is ready for Friday’s Flames vs South Sudan qualifier at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, after blackout fears—so fans can plan their trip with less worry. Local transport & access: Twic County residents in Warrap are urging election candidates to fix bad roads first, saying poor connectivity blocks travel to markets, health services, and even campaign events. Clean water for visitors and locals: The Türkiye Diyanet Foundation installed a solar-powered borehole in Kwerjik (near Juba), delivering about 4,000 litres of clean water daily and reducing reliance on unsafe streams. South Sudan on the move (and on watchlists): The US placed South Sudan on its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” list, warning Americans of extreme security risks and limited consular help. Regional health rules: Nigeria clarified that travellers arriving from countries including South Sudan must complete a health declaration and face 21-day post-arrival monitoring amid Ebola-related surveillance. Politics & security in Juba: Heavy security returned to Juba after President Kiir signed changes removing vice-presidents ahead of December elections, with soldiers ordered to stay on high alert. Sporting link to Egypt: Egypt’s coach confirmed squad changes for matches including Juba—setting up more travel interest around the South Sudan fixture. Human stories from the road: A report highlights how violence and emergency care strain rural South Sudan hospitals, with doctors performing dozens of surgeries in days.

Water & Community: Türkiye Diyanet Foundation has installed a solar-powered borehole in Kwerjik on Juba’s outskirts, aiming to deliver about 4,000 litres of clean water daily to residents who have long relied on a stream that turns unsafe in the dry season. Roads & Travel Access: In Twic County, Warrap, residents urged politicians to fix poor roads before campaigning, saying bad routes cut communities off, delay travel to markets and services, and worsen emergency access. Sports Tourism: Malawi’s Flames host South Sudan at Bingu National Stadium on 25 September (6:00pm), with organizers pushing fans to buy tickets in advance; the match is also framed as a chance to showcase new players. Security in Juba: Heavy security was reported in Juba after President Salva Kiir signed a new elections law removing vice-presidents ahead of the December vote, with soldiers seen on roads and offices closing amid tension. Health & Cross-Border Travel: Ebola response efforts in DR Congo are expanding, and IOM is increasing health screenings at major travel routes and ports, including coordination with South Sudan and other neighbours. Travel Rules for Visitors: Germany and the UK both published updated airport transit visa lists that include South Sudan, affecting travellers connecting through their airports.

AfCON Matchday Buzz (Malawi–South Sudan): Malawi’s Flames host South Sudan at Bingu National Stadium on Friday, 25 September, and coach Kalisto Pasuwa is urging fans to turn up in numbers to back new squad faces, including Adiel Kaduya and Blessings Kanowa. Travel & Event Practicalities: Organisers say electricity worries won’t derail the match, with backup arrangements planned in case of a blackout. Roads for Voters (South Sudan): Ahead of December 2026 elections, coverage highlights how poor roads and broken bridges can block rural campaigning and turnout—an issue that also affects travel to markets, health facilities, and county headquarters. Ebola Watch for Travellers (DR Congo region): The US pledges $267m more for Ebola response in Congo, while IOM expands screenings along major travel routes and at ports, including coordination with South Sudan and neighbours to reduce cross-border spread. Visa Rules That Affect South Sudanese Travel: Germany and the UK publish stricter airport transit visa lists that include South Sudan, meaning some travellers may need extra paperwork even without leaving the airport.

Ebola Watch: IOM is ramping up Ebola surveillance beyond DR Congo, adding health screenings at Congo River travel points like Bende-Bende port and coordinating with neighbours including Uganda and South Sudan to cut cross-border spread. Matchday Travel: Malawi’s government says power cuts won’t stop the Flames vs South Sudan AFCON qualifier at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Sept 25, with backup arrangements ready. Security in Juba: Heavy patrols hit Juba after President Salva Kiir signed changes to keep himself in office while removing vice-presidents ahead of December elections—an update that may affect movement and travel plans. Visa Rules for Travellers: Germany and the UK both published stricter airport transit visa lists that include South Sudan, meaning some travellers may need paperwork even when staying airside. Animal Health & Borders: South Sudan’s first African Swine Fever case has triggered tighter quarantine and warnings against carrying pork products. Community & Inclusion: A report highlights ongoing persecution of LGBTQ+ refugees in Gorom settlement near Juba, underscoring safety concerns for visitors and aid workers.

AFCON Match Travel Update: Malawi’s government says electricity problems won’t derail the Flames–South Sudan qualifier at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, with backup power plans in place. Match Tickets: Fans can buy tickets in advance for the Flames AfCON Pamoja 2027 qualifier vs South Sudan (Standard K8,000; VIP K20,000; Corporate Box K300,000 for 10), with online sales via the FAM link and kickoff set for 18:00. Security in Juba: Heavy security and road patrols were reported in Juba as government offices closed amid heightened political tensions tied to the removal of vice-presidents ahead of December elections. Health & Travel Caution: South Sudan’s first confirmed African Swine Fever case (reported from Yambio) has prompted tighter quarantine and warnings against importing or carrying pork products. Visa/Transit Watch: Germany and the UK published expanded airport transit visa lists that include South Sudan, affecting travelers connecting through their airports. Community & Safety: A report highlights ongoing discrimination and harassment faced by LGBTQ+ refugees in Gorom settlement near Juba, underscoring the need for safer protection on the ground.

UN Security & Travel Disruption: Heavy security in Juba as South Sudan removes vice-presidents ahead of December elections, with soldiers patrolling roads and offices closing—an on-the-ground reminder that travel plans may face sudden changes. Visa Rules for Travelers: Germany and the UK both published expanded airport transit visa lists affecting many African nationalities, including South Sudan—important for anyone connecting through Europe. Health & Safety for Visitors: Congo’s Ebola response is testing whether an existing vaccine can protect against the rare Bundibugyo virus, while South Sudan’s own medical strain is highlighted by reports of extreme surgical pressure in rural hospitals. Wildlife & Nature Tourism: Boma and Badingilo national parks near UNESCO World Heritage status, with birdlife and seasonal migrations drawing conservation and tourism interest. Regional Mobility & Air Routes: Turkish Airlines and Corendon are cutting routes into 2027, including changes that could affect connections for travelers heading toward/through Africa. Sports & Local Events: Malawi’s AfCON qualifier vs South Sudan is set for Bingu National Stadium with ticket sales open, a clear draw for sports-focused visitors. Business & Cross-Border Trade: The East Africa Business Council urges South Sudanese entrepreneurs to tap regional markets across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi and Rwanda.

Visa & entry rules for travelers: Germany and the UK both published updated airport transit visa lists, with South Sudan included—meaning some travelers may need a visa even if they stay inside the airport transit area. Security & politics in Juba: Heavy security patrols appeared in Juba as government offices closed amid heightened tensions after President Salva Kiir signed a new elections law removing vice-presidents ahead of the December vote. Elections abroad, travel impact: Uganda’s UNGA delegation was cut after the US rejected visas for many senior officials, leaving Vice President Jessica Alupo with a very small team. Health & humanitarian travel: World Food Programme warns a “Super El Niño” is deepening South Sudan’s hunger crisis, while UNHCR seeks funds for an Akobo emergency response. Wildlife tourism boost: South Sudan’s Boma and Badingilo parks’ UNESCO World Heritage status is expected to bring new attention for birdlife and safari-style visits. Animal health & food safety: South Sudan’s first confirmed African Swine Fever case has triggered stricter pork import and quarantine warnings. Sports travel tie-in: Tickets are available for Malawi’s AfCON Pamoja 2027 qualifier against South Sudan in Lilongwe.