Tournament in Juba Celebrates Four Years of Stability in Lakes

(JUBA COUNTY) – Citizens from the eight counties of Lakes State gathered at Buluk Playground in Juba on 19 July 2025 to officially launch the Lakes State Peace Tournament, held under the theme “Together for Peace and Unity.”

The event brought together residents, supporters and government officials to celebrate what they described as the restoration of peace and law and order under the leadership of Governor Lt. Gen. Rin Tueny Mabor.

The tournament was organised by volunteers from the eight counties of Lakes State Awerial, Cueibet, Rumbek Centre, Rumbek East, Rumbek North, Wulu, Yirol East and Yirol West under the coordination of Mr. Makuac Anyuat Pap, popularly known by the nickname Trump.

The initiative aimed to recognise the Governor’s efforts in promoting peace in Lakes State, which participants say has also contributed to broader stability across the Bahr el Ghazal region and parts of South Sudan.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor during the opening ceremony, Hon. Majok Anhiem Dhal, the State Minister for Finance, Planning and Investment, thanked all participants for showing unity and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to peace.

He extended special gratitude to those from outside Lakes State who have played a role in supporting peace initiatives in the region.

Hon. Dhal encouraged citizens to put aside the divisions of the past and work together toward development, noting that sustained peace is the foundation for progress.

“It is imperative that we act swiftly to advance our state,” he said. “It is also essential to put aside past conflicts and embark on a new chapter, as this is the only way we can contribute to the development of our state and nation.”

The Minister added that Lakes State has seen remarkable changes in the past four years and encouraged other regions to draw inspiration from the transformation.

The event was well attended by youth, community leaders and members of the Lakes State diaspora in Juba, many of whom applauded the peaceful atmosphere and the use of sport as a tool for reconciliation and community building.

There was no mention of the specific financial outlay.