In a vibrant display of unity and inclusion, the Government of Western Equatoria State, in collaboration with the Catholic Church, hosted a lively Easter Monday sports competition in Yambio.
The event, held on 21 April, brought together residents from across the town to participate in motorbike, bicycle, and athletics races to promote peace, social cohesion, and physical fitness.
Acting Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa praised the initiative as a meaningful step toward building harmony among communities.
“Let the sky be the limit for your resilience and participation in sports. Sport is health, it unites, heals, and it brings people together,” he said, calling on citizens to embrace sports as a tool for both personal and communal development.
A notable highlight of the event was the active participation of women in all categories of the races, an encouraging sign of progress in the push for gender equality in the state. Spectators cheered as women riders and runners showcased their talents, sending a powerful message about inclusion and empowerment.
“This is the path we must follow, a path of peace, unity, and shared goals. If we continue like this, Western Equatoria will prosper, not only in sports but also in economic development and youth empowerment,” Rimbasa added.
Also speaking at the event was the Bishop of Tambura-Yambio Diocese, Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, who underscored the importance of reviving community events as a sign of healing and cooperation in the region.
“Today we celebrate peace through movement, through sports. It is uplifting to see so many women actively riding motorbikes,” he stated. “This is a new and positive development for our community.”
He also reflected on the cultural significance of bicycles in the area, noting how they once symbolized progress during the cotton-selling era and are now making a comeback for both environmental and health reasons.
“Even in developed nations, bicycles are being embraced again. It is good to see us reconnecting with our traditions healthily and sustainably,” he said.
The bishop further encouraged the state government to invest more in youth sports programs, emphasizing their potential to instill discipline, discover talents, and foster long-term peace.
The event concluded with messages of love, unity, and mutual respect, as participants and leaders alike called on the people of Western Equatoria to continue using sports and other cultural activities as vehicles for peacebuilding and national development.