A new report from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) released on 28 August reveals that more than 6,500 people are registered as missing in South Sudan, a global 70 percent increase from last year.

So, many cases are linked to the conflict in Sudan and the refugee influx but also reflect years of displacement and insecurity here at home. Behind every number is a family waiting for answers, often reaching out to the ICRC for help. 

To discuss the scale of this crisis and what support is available, Samuel Pawon sat down with Delfine Bermijn, Deputy Coordinator in charge of Protection of Family Links with the ICRC in South Sudan.

In today’s episode, we sit down with UK Ambassador to South Sudan, David Ashley, for an in-depth conversation on the peace process, humanitarian challenges, and the road ahead for South Sudan.

As South Sudan looks toward the 2026 elections, what urgent steps need to be taken to rebuild trust, strengthen institutions, and ensure a credible path forward? And what role does the UK see for itself in supporting peace and stability here?

Listen to this important discussion with Sani Martin.

Guest: Mr. Thomas Muto Lo’Buda, Patron of Central Equatoria Business Union and Consultant of the Juba Special Economic Zone

Residents of Gudele, Hai Referendum and Mia-Saba in Juba are threatening legal action against government institutions over poor service delivery. Their lawyer, Mario Maker Chol of Reign Legal and Consultancy Firm, says notices have been served to the Ministries of Roads and Bridges, Environment and Forestry, and Juba City Council, accusing them of violating citizens’ constitutional rights.

 In this episode, we share an extra-ordinary story of resilience and hope. Our guest, is Dominic Living Wawa, once lived on the streets, but turned his struggles into strength.

He now leads the Kikiji National Orphanage Centre–South Sudan, giving vulnerable children love, shelter, and education. 

Dominic has also captured his journey in a new book, set to launch on September 6th, a story that reflects not only his life, but the reality of many children in our society. 

We are honored to host General Elia Kosta, Director-General of the Directorate of Immigration, Nationality, and Passports. 

His office is at the heart of safeguarding South Sudan’s borders, regulating the movement of people, and ensuring citizens and visitors alike can access vital services such as passports, visas, and national identification. 

Guest: Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Hon Lily Albino Akol

In this episode, we examine the future of the 2018 peace agreement, the R-ARCSS. Once seen as a pathway to elections and democratic transition, the deal now faces serious challenges, from missed benchmarks and renewed clashes to divisions within key political parties. 

Some call the agreement dead, while others argue it can still be revived. So, what must the parties do to recommit and rebuild trust ahead of the 2026 elections? 

Joining Garang Yach James in the discussion are Hon. Joseph Bol Agau, Secretary-General of the NDM, and Ms. Jackline Nasiwa, Executive Director of the Centre for Inclusive Governance, Peace and Justice.