PHOTO: Embassy of South Sudan, Nairobi
(NAIROBI) – A delegation of South Sudanese students studying in Kenya met with Ambassador Anthony Kon on 5 August 2025 to present a regional trophy and seek support for participation in an international rafting competition.
The meeting was held at the Embassy of South Sudan in Nairobi, where the students, drawn from Kenyatta University, briefed the Ambassador on their recent achievement and appealed for urgent government assistance.
The team, led by Mr Chan Kuok, secured second place at a regional water rafting contest held in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. The competition attracted university students from 11 African nations including Kenya, Sudan, Morocco, Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Despite limited preparation and lack of institutional support, the South Sudanese students outperformed many more resourced teams and narrowly missed first place.
Ambassador Kon welcomed the students and commended their dedication and patriotism. He noted the importance of their achievement, especially given the absence of formal sponsorship or logistical support.
“You have made South Sudan proud,” he said. “Your discipline and determination reflect the best of our youth.”
The students explained that the Kirinyaga competition was part of the qualifying series for the upcoming International Rafting Championship scheduled for 5 November 2025 in Argentina. To take part, South Sudan must be registered as a member of the International Rafting Federation (IRF), a step which has yet to be completed.
Speaking on behalf of the team, Mr Kuok appealed to the Government of South Sudan to act urgently through the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation,and other relevant departments. Their request is for support in five key areas:
| Request | Details |
|---|---|
| IRF Registration | Official registration of South Sudan as a member of the International Rafting Federation |
| Travel Support | Air tickets for 15 participants to and from Argentina |
| Immigration Assistance | Help with passports and visas for students without valid travel documents |
| Accommodation and Meals | Basic provision for a 10 day stay in Argentina |
| Training Kits and Equipment | Rafting gear that meets international competition standards |
The students stressed that this request is not directed to the Embassy itself but is a formal appeal to the national government to act in a timely and coordinated way to enable South Sudan’s representation at the global event.
“This is not just about sport,” Mr Kuok said. “It is about showing the world that South Sudanese youth have the talent, energy and drive to participate in international platforms and raise our flag with pride.”
Kon responded by pledging to convey their appeal to the appropriate authorities in Juba without delay.
“You have done your part as committed citizens,” he told the students. “Now it is time for our institutions to do theirs. This is not only about sports, but about presenting a positive image of South Sudan on the world stage.”
He further encouraged the group to remain united, continue their academic pursuits, and consider how they can contribute to the country’s development once their studies are completed.
Many of the students expressed deep appreciation for the Ambassador’s reception, noting it was their first time engaging directly with a South Sudanese diplomat.
The championship in Argentina only three months away.
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