Eastern Lakes State defeated Jonglei by 3-2 in the final of an inter-communal wrestling tournament organized on Saturday.

16 wrestlers from the two communities contested for the match in Bor town. The event was attended by a large number of fans.

Wrestling games are meant to encourage peace and reconciliation among South Sudanese.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Saturday, the Jonglei Wrestling Association head, Majok Jokrir said the event was organized to consolidate peace with the Aliap community from Awerial County of Eastern Lakes State.

“It started well and it ended well. There were 16 wrestlers from both sides. Three wrestlers from Jonglei were defeated and two from Eastern Lakes were also defeated while the rest drew,” said Majok.

 “Our government signed a peace deal and as a community, we want to start our own peace. Officials and communities from Awerial were here, we will also go there. This builds confidence,” he added.

Majok said the event was peaceful and the Aliap community was awarded a bull.

 He urged government and non-governmental organizations to support wrestling, saying it promotes peace in communities.

On her part, Jongei State information minister, Atong Kuol Manyang lauded the organizers of the event, stressing that sports activities would help promote social interactions among the two communities.

She said the state government plans to modernize wrestling to promote peace among youth people.