Video Showing Over 1,000 SPLA-IO Fighters Defect to SSPDF in Ayod County

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Ayod County, Jonglei State More than one thousand armed youth affiliated with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) have defected to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) in Ayod County, Jonglei State. Machar’s Defense Declares Juba Special Court Illegal: Court Mandate Expired, Demands His Immediate Release The defectors, who publicly declared their allegiance to the national army over the weekend, were officially received by Ayod County Commissioner James Chuol Jiek alongside senior heads of organized forces in the area. Commissioner Chuol praised the group’s decision, describing it as a “bold step toward lasting peace and unity” in the county.  Two Rebel Grounds and RSF Unites:  Rebel Forces and RSF Forces Regroup Near Sudan Border, South Sudan Officials Warn ‎ He assured the returnees of full government protection and urged other holdout groups to lay down their arms and join peace efforts. Local authorities say the integration of the defected...
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‎Kenya’s President Ruto Assumes Chairmanship of COMESA, Pledges to Deepen Regional Integration

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‎Nairobi, Kenya 

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Kenya’s President William Ruto has officially taken over as the new Chairperson of COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa), succeeding Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye. 

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The transition occurred during the 24th COMESA Heads of State and Government Summit held in Nairobi on Thursday. 

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‎Key Highlights & Strategic Priorities

‎1. Leadership Transition & Summit Attendance

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‎President Ruto’s elevation comes at a critical time for regional integration efforts.

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‎The summit drew heads of state, government envoys, and representatives from the African Union and development partners. 

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‎South Sudan, while not a full member of COMESA, participates through the Regional Customs Transit Guarantee (RCTG) scheme. 

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‎2. Focus on Economic & Social Integration

‎In his inaugural address, Ruto emphasized narrowing economic and social divides across member states:

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‎“At the heart of our mission are our people and our shared determination to bridge the economic and social gaps that divide our region.” 

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‎His vision centers on ensuring that the gains of regional cooperation are equitably shared among citizens.

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‎3. Commitment to Equity and Inclusiveness

‎Ruto’s leadership pledge underscores a shift toward inclusion, justice, and more balanced development.

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‎By targeting inequalities, he aims to make COMESA’s benefits such as trade, infrastructure, and mobility accessible to all member countries’ populations.

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‎Implications & What to Watch

‎Trade & Investment Flows: Under Ruto’s chairmanship, we may see renewed efforts to reduce trade barriers and harmonize customs procedures across the COMESA bloc.

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‎Infrastructure & Connectivity: Enhancing physical and digital connectivity among member states may become a higher priority.

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‎Social Cohesion: Programs that address cross-border inequality, labor mobility, and shared services (e.g., health, education) might gain front-line status.

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‎South Sudan’s Role: Although a non-full member, South Sudan’s participation in the RCTG scheme positions it to benefit from improved trade facilitation policies.

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