Aweil East: Football ground construction halted over financial constraints

Sports authorities in Aweil East County, Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, announced the suspension of construction on the county’s football pitch.

Sports authorities in Aweil East County, Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, announced the suspension of construction on the county’s football pitch.

The President of Aweil East Local Football Association, Garang Johnson Kuek, told Radio Tamazuj on Friday that the project has been hindered by financial constraints.

Kuek appealed for additional funds and called on South Sudanese citizens and other well-wishers to promptly respond to address the current situation and ensure the completion of the construction activities.

“The construction has come to a halt due to insufficient funds from the contributions made,” explained Kuek. “We are appealing to our fellow citizens across the country to support us in this endeavour. Financial challenges have caused the delay in construction, and we need assistance to overcome this hurdle,” he revealed.

The Director of Culture, Youth, and Sports in Aweil East County, Bulis Bol Chan, shared that the 63 million SSP project commenced in August. However, all work activities were suspended due to insufficient funds.

“We initiated the construction of our football field in August, funded by well-wishers, the community, and the government before it came to a standstill. Governor of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, Tong Akeen Ngor, contributed 10,000,000 South Sudanese Pounds, and the community raised 7,000,000 South Sudanese Pounds. Unfortunately, the entire amount has been utilized,” explained Bol.

Football in South Sudan is governed by the South Sudan Football Association (SSFA). It was established in April 2011 and is an affiliate of CECAFA, CAF and FIFA. SSFA organizes and overseas the National Football leagues and the South Sudan National teams.