South Sudan made history by hosting the CECAFA General Assembly for the first time at the Royal Hotel, in Juba marking a significant milestone for the country’s sports landscape.
Dr. Joseph Geng Akech, the National Minister for Youth and Sports, officially opened the assembly, extending a warm welcome to delegates from across the region and expressing his gratitude to the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) for entrusting South Sudan with this prestigious event.
Dr. Geng underscored South Sudan’s deep passion for football and highlighted the country’s ongoing commitment to the development of sports. He particularly acknowledged the vital role FIFA has played in supporting South Sudan’s sports infrastructure, especially through the construction of a state-of-the-art stadium, signaling a new era of sports development in the country.
“We in the Ministry of Youth and Sports place sports among our top priorities,” Dr. Geng said in his speech. “Sports have a profound impact on our lives. They unite people, and today, we have the honor of hosting the entire African sporting community here in South Sudan.” His words resonated deeply, reflecting the unifying power of sports as a tool for peace, cooperation, and development.
Dr. Geng also highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to secure funding for sports initiatives and promote the development of sports at all levels.
A key announcement during the assembly was the upcoming launch of the Sports Support Fund, a new initiative designed to attract sponsorship and investments into sports infrastructure and programming across South Sudan.
Dr. Geng praised the leadership of the South Sudan Football Association (SSFA), particularly President Francis Amin, for his efforts in establishing the South Sudan Premier League. “This league has the potential to become one of the best in Africa,” Dr. Geng stated, emphasizing the importance of a strong domestic football scene in nurturing future talent and elevating South Sudan’s sporting reputation.
In addition to infrastructure and investment, Dr. Geng revealed plans to establish the first specialized college of sports at the University of Juba. This initiative aims to strengthen sports administration and provide a pipeline of skilled professionals to manage and develop the country’s sporting future.
As the CECAFA General Assembly unfolds, South Sudan’s leadership in sports is on full display, with the country’s Ministry of Youth and Sports actively paving the way for the growth of sports both locally and internationally.
The successful hosting of this landmark event is a testament to the nation’s ongoing dedication to building a thriving sports culture, fostering regional cooperation, and creating lasting impact through sports.
