The deputy governor of Eastern Equatoria State has called on the communities in the country to stop politicizing sports and embrace peace and unity.
Mary Alphonse Lodira appealed during a meeting with the management of a new national organization, the Humanitarian Development Rehabilitation Organization (HUDRO) in Torit on Friday.
The organization is currently running the Greater Equatoria Sports and Entertainment County Awards (GESECA) 2024 project which involves football, volleyball, traditional dances, and women’s football to enhance peace and unity.
HUDRO staff are expected to meet the state leadership, UNMISS, NGOs, and civil society among others to appeal for support to the project in cash or kind.
According to the organization, counties in greater Equatoria will compete and be awarded different prizes.
Lodira said attaining peace requires the combination of different approaches.
“Peace is not going to come like water and it has so many components that make it work. One of them is sports which is a very big thing that unites people. It is a very noble idea but it is also a very tough work and you know we South Sudanese are also complicated people,” she said. “Something will start very well and when the money is there, quarrels start and this thing will fall apart. I know it will be politicized but do not give up, write to all these ministers and business people for contribution”.
The HUDRO coordinator IN Eastern Equatoria State, Stephen Loki Atome, said his organization aims to promote peace through sports.
“We need to see all the counties of greater Equatoria compete in five activities. We need to promote the young artists in the country and that is what we have come for. For example, football can market and bring peace among us,” he said.
Meanwhile, William Osiata De-Rock, the organization’s logistician, appealed for support from the government.
“We cannot operate without leaders and that is why we are also visiting your office to let you know about our activities,” he stated.