Minister Announces Juba Ban
The Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr. Joseph Geng Akech, announced that community football tournaments will be suspended in Juba from 2025, citing repeated fan violence that has overshadowed recent fixtures.
He confirmed the ongoing peace cup in the capital would finish without disruption, stressing that any change now would punish teams that have invested time and money.
Buluk Playground Incident Recapped
Tension escalated after officials were assaulted at Buluk Playground during a heated match between Tonj North and Awerial earlier this month.
The South Sudan Football Federation reacted by withdrawing all national and international referees from community events in the city, arguing that safety guarantees were no longer credible.
Move to State Capitals
Under the new framework, peace tournaments will be decentralized, with state governors tasked to initiate requests and provide security plans before kick-off.
Dr. Akech said this shift would spread economic benefits and reduce pressure on Juba’s limited facilities, while allowing local administrations to showcase hospitality.
Ministry’s Development Agenda
Beyond crowd control, the ministry pledges capacity-building for coaches, investments in youth academies and better pitch maintenance across the country.
Officials believe consistent funding will help national squads compete regionally, bolstering South Sudan’s profile in CECAFA and CAF competitions.
Stakeholders React Cautiously
Club managers welcome the ban yet fear travel costs could strain grassroots budgets.
Civil society voices urge sustained dialogue with fan groups, arguing that education, not only relocation, is key to lasting tranquility.
For now, the capital braces for a quieter sporting calendar even as provincial towns prepare to host the noise and color once reserved for Juba.