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The Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) has adopted the National Sports Development Policy, a strategic framework aimed at transforming South Sudan’s sports sector into a tool for peace, unity, and national development.
The policy presented by Hon. Deng Mathiang Ngong, a member of
TNLA’s Standing Specialized Committee on Youth and Sports, outlines a
comprehensive roadmap for revitalizing the nation’s sports infrastructure, institutions,
and governance systems.
The policy recognizes sports as a critical unifying force
for the people of South Sudan since independence in 2011, highlighting its role
in fostering reconciliation and national pride.
However, growth in the sector has been limited by years of
conflict, inadequate infrastructure, weak institutional frameworks, and
financial constraints.
During the parliamentary session, Hon. Mary Nawai Martin, Minister
of Youth and Sports, emphasized the unifying power of sports and the need for
greater investment to engage the youth constructively.
“We have known that the sports is a unified factor that can
unite the people of South Sudan through the youth, because youth has been
misled to engage themselves in different bad activities in this country,” Nawai
said on Thursday.
“So, for the ministry, the budget of the ministry is just
under-budgeted for sports activities.”
The policy pledges an annual government allocation of USD 5
million or its equivalent in South Sudanese Pounds to support sports
development across the country.
“We propose that five million is specifically for sports activities. And I will also appreciate it if the house would like to increase, we will appreciate it, it's just specifically for the sports activities,” Nawai stated.
Key focus areas include the construction and rehabilitation of national stadiums in all ten states and three administrative areas, the establishment of sports academies and a sports science institute, and the professional training of athletes, coaches, and managers.
Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba, Speaker of the National
Parliament, commended the initiative, reaffirming the legislature’s collective
support.
“With all the observations and comments and recommendations made, and the whole house has seconded that we pass and adopt the report,” Nunu declared.