Despite denials from Cairo and Juba, there are escalating fears that the conflict in South Sudan could turn into a regional war, particularly due to the complex relations between Cairo, Juba, and Addis Ababa. Opposition spokesperson William Gatjiath accused Egyptian forces of bombing opposition locations in Upper Nile state, which Egypt denies. The situation is further complicated by the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam issue, which has strained relations between Egypt and Ethiopia. South Sudan's government aims to end the ongoing war by 2020 through a national dialogue initiative.

The Korbandi Salon, founded by poet Lawrence Korbandi, is a biweekly cultural and creative forum in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. It serves as a gathering place for poets, short story writers, and other creatives to present their work and connect with one another. The salon, named in honor of its founder, has become a symbol of hope and a cultural refuge amidst the backdrop of war and despair. Notable participants include John Gai, South Sudan's Minister of National Education, and Rebecca Joshua, Minister of Communications. The salon addresses issues of identity and literary expression in post-independence South Sudan, offering a platform for writers affected by war and displacement to share their experiences and literary works.