The South Sudan Athletics Federation has urged partners to invest more in sports, highlighting the need for greater support to create opportunities for young athletes to compete globally. Federation President Majok Ayii emphasized that collective support is crucial to unlock the country's athletic potential. South Sudan has significant athletic potential, which requires development to enable the country to compete internationally. The federation's call for investment aims to build a strong foundation for athletics in the country.
The Watoto Juba City Marathon, organized in collaboration with the South Sudan Athletics Federation, featured athletes competing in 21-kilometer, 10-kilometer, and 5-kilometer races. The event, themed "Hope in Every Mile," showcased the country's athletic talent. During the closing ceremony, Ayii stressed that sport needs collective support and investment to build a future for young people in athletics. The event demonstrated the potential for athletics in South Sudan and the need for continued support.
Atalina Geoffry, also known as Natasha, the women's half-marathon champion, shared her challenging journey to becoming a champion at the 2024 African Games in Ghana. Geoffry emphasized that nurturing athletic potential requires support from the government and partners. She encouraged South Sudanese to support athletics, highlighting its importance for the young generation. Geoffry's achievement demonstrates the potential for South Sudanese athletes to excel globally with the right support.
Edward Satimo Yugu, Director General of Youth and Sport in the national Ministry of Youth and Sport, affirmed the government's encouragement of private sector investment in community sports nationwide. The government aims to develop community sports and promote events like the Watoto Juba City Marathon at the regional level. Yugu emphasized the importance of cooperation with partners to develop community sports and unlock the country's athletic potential.
The South Sudan Athletics Federation's call for investment is aimed at creating opportunities for young athletes to compete at regional and international levels. The federation believes that with collective support, South Sudan can develop a strong athletic program and gain recognition globally. The government's support for private sector investment in community sports is expected to contribute to the growth of athletics in the country.
Yugu predicted that in the next three years, South Sudan will have more athletes representing the country at both regional and international levels. The government's efforts to promote community sports and encourage private sector investment are expected to yield positive results. The development of athletics in South Sudan is crucial for promoting youth development and national recognition.
The South Sudan Athletics Federation's efforts to promote athletics and seek investment have garnered support from various stakeholders. The federation's call for investment has highlighted the need for collective support to develop athletics in the country. With continued support, South Sudanese athletes can compete globally and bring recognition to the country.
Key points
- The South Sudan Athletics Federation is seeking increased investment to develop young athletes and compete at regional and international levels.
- The government is encouraging private sector investment in community sports nationwide to develop athletics in the country.
- South Sudan is expected to have more athletes representing the country at regional and international levels in the next three years.