By Emmanuel Mandella

Sports significantly contribute to peacebuilding by fostering social integration, promotes national identity, and facilitate reconciliation in divided societies. It provides a platform for positive interaction, skill development, and the promotion of values like respect, teamwork, and fair play

Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu, knows this too weel, and has promised to continue championing peace through sports activities.

Hon. Badagbu pledged his unwavering support to the youth and football initiatives in the state, promising to be an active ambassador of the Yambio Local Football Association.

Speaking during the round of 16 match of the ongoing Yambio Inter-Areas Football Tournament between Akorogbodi (Ak1) and Baiparu at Yambio Freedom Square on Sunday, the acting governor lauded the community for choosing peace, unity, and resilience through sports.

“I have come here, first, to congratulate you for maintaining peace. Secondly, I have come to congratulate the Yambio Local Football Association for being a big ambassador of peace, and to appreciate Akorogbodi and Baiparu. You’ve made peace with each other, and that alone is a great victory,” said Ag. Governor Badagbu.

He praised the youth of Yambio and those from surrounding areas for their talent and resilience, describing the atmosphere during the match as a reflection of unity and community spirit.

“Today is a very special day for me to come and see for myself the resilience and talent of our young people. The way you support your teams Akorogbodi, Baiparu, and others is amazing. Let’s continue with this peace,” he emphasized.

He further pledged direct support to the Yambio Local Football Association, promising to help organize more tournaments, including the Western Equatoria state inter-counties football tournament, to engage more youth and promote peaceful coexistence.

“I will support the Football Association by all means. I will organize a tournament for Western Equatoria as well. Let’s walk together on the journey to peace. Let us empower ourselves,” he affirmed.

Calling for investment in Football Infrastructure, Mr. Joseph Ndepi, President of the Yambio Local Football Association, commended the acting governor for his visible support since assuming office.

“Allow me, on behalf of the Yambio Local Football Federation, to congratulate you and welcome you to this historic event that has brought nearly the entire population of South Sudan together here in Yambio,” Ndepi said.

He highlighted the significant backing the Football Association has received from the current administration.

“With you in the front seat, even as acting governor, we have seen what real leadership can do,” he said, drawing cheers from the crowd.