Activist Edmund Yakani has made an urgent appeal to President Salva Kiir to provide $75,000 to support the national blind football team, known as the Bright Stars, in their participation in the African Division One Championship in Cairo, Egypt. The team, reigning African Division Two champions, won the tournament in Uganda in October last year and has qualified for the Division One Championship. However, they face financial difficulties ahead of the November 1 participation deadline.
The Bright Stars' participation in the continental competition is uncertain due to the lack of financial support. Yakani, head of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), expressed concern over what he described as unequal treatment of the blind football team compared to other national sports teams that have received government support to participate in international competitions. He questioned the government's commitment to disability inclusion.
Yakani recalled President Kiir's signing of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, making South Sudan a party to the agreement. He asked about the importance of the President's signature if the country cannot offer $75,000 to support the blind football team. Yakani stated that persons with disabilities should not be discriminated against in sports.
The African Division One Championship in Cairo presents an opportunity for the Bright Stars to compete in other international tournaments, including competitions in Brazil, Tajikistan, and Los Angeles. Yakani called on the government, private sector, and well-wishers to mobilize the funds before the November 1 deadline. He emphasized that the team's participation in the championship could create opportunities for them to compete at a higher level.
The national blind football team's financial struggles highlight the challenges faced by athletes with disabilities in South Sudan. Despite their achievements, the team requires external support to participate in international competitions. Yakani's appeal to President Kiir and other senior government officials aims to secure the necessary funds to support the team's participation in the African Division One Championship.
The government's response to Yakani's appeal remains unclear. However, the activist's efforts to raise awareness about the team's plight may put pressure on the government to provide support. The Bright Stars' participation in the African Division One Championship would not only promote disability inclusion but also showcase South Sudan's sporting talent on the continental stage.
The team's journey to the African Division One Championship is a testament to their determination and resilience. With the required funds, the Bright Stars can focus on their training and competition, potentially inspiring other athletes with disabilities in South Sudan. The government's support for the team would demonstrate its commitment to disability inclusion and equal opportunities for all citizens.
Key points
- Activist Edmund Yakani appeals to President Salva Kiir for $75,000 to support the national blind football team's participation in the African Division One Championship.
