Japan and South Sudan Strengthen Sports Partnership

JUBA) – Japan has said unity through sports can play an important role in the peace process in South Sudan, as the Japanese ambassador held talks with the Minister of Youth and Sports.

On 22 June 2026, Ambassador Odagiri Toshio paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Atong Kuol Manyang.

The two discussed joint efforts between the two countries to date, including JICA’s support for National Unity Day sports events and the hosting of a South Sudanese delegation by Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan during the Tokyo Olympic Games.

Ambassador Odagiri spoke about the importance of unity through sports in the peace process and the partnership between the two countries in the field of sports.

He also said that peace and stability in South Sudan is essential to further strengthen cooperation in this area. He conveyed Japan’s sincere hope for the improvement of the political and security situation.

Earlier, on 19 June 2026, Ambassador Odagiri received Ambassador Moussa Djama Ali, the IGAD Special Envoy to South Sudan, at his residence.

During the meeting, Ambassador Odagiri reaffirmed Japan’s support for the communiqué adopted at the AUC 5+ Summit in February. He also expressed Japan’s backing for the efforts of AU High Level Representative Kikwete.

The Japanese Ambassador heard from the IGAD Special Envoy about his recent activities on the ground. The two sides confirmed that they share a common understanding of the challenges facing South Sudan and are working toward the same goals.

Odagiri restated Japan’s commitment to peace and stability in South Sudan. He spoke of the importance of inclusive political dialogue among all parties to the R ARCSS.

He expressed his hope that regional organisations, including IGAD, will continue to play a central role in advancing peace in South Sudan.

In a separate development, Japan joined nine other embassies and the European Union delegation in condemning an attack on humanitarian workers in Jonglei State.

In a joint statement, the embassies of Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States condemned the 29 June attack on humanitarian workers employed by the John Dau Foundation in Duk County.

The statement expressed condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of those killed. It said those responsible for the attack must be held accountable.

It added that all parties must respect and protect humanitarian personnel and assets, and that humanitarian workers must never be targets.