Inter Payam Peace Football Tournament Opens in Yei River County

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Teams from five payams in Yei River County have begun competing in an Inter Payam Peace Football Tournament aimed at strengthening unity and peaceful coexistence among communities.

The tournament is taking place at Yei Freedom Square in Yei Town and brings together teams from Yei Town Payam, Lasu Payam, Tore Payam, Mugwo Payam and Otogo Payam. The competition began on 7 March 2026 and will continue until Sunday 15 March 2026.

The opening match saw Yei Town Payam play against Lasu Payam in a closely contested game. The match ended one one after normal time. Yei Town Payam later won five three in a penalty shootout.

Local authorities say the tournament is expected to attract strong participation from communities across the county. Organisers say the event is designed to encourage peace, unity and cooperation among residents while also promoting youth engagement through sport.

Officials also say the competition offers young people an opportunity to take part in positive activities and develop their football skills.

The tournament was officially launched by the Commissioner of Yei River County, Emmanuel Taban Seme. Speaking during the launch, he said the event was organised to strengthen peace, unity and social cooperation among the people of the county.

He called on players from the participating payams to show sportsmanship, teamwork and respect on and off the football field.