YAMBIO – The Government of Western Equatoria State, in partnership with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on Saturday launched the rehabilitation of the long-abandoned Gbudue Stadium in Yambio.
The initiative led by Ethiopian peacekeepers involved ground-breaking and clearing activities, fostering renewed hope for sports development, youth engagement, and community cohesion in the state.
The stadium—built in 2010 during the tenure of former Governor and current National Speaker, Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba—has remained idle and dilapidated for several years.
Speaking during the launch ceremony in Yambio on Saturday, UNMISS Head of Office in Western Equatoria State, Jane Kony, who led more than 100 Ethiopian peacekeeper in the cleaning exercise, said the initiative reflects the shared commitment to peace, youth empowerment, and community building.
“The UNMISS will continue working closely with government institutions, youth groups, and communities to ensure young people are meaningfully engaged for peace and stability in the state,” Kony said.
For his part, Justin Joseph Marona, acting governor of Western Equatoria State, referred to the initiative as an important milestone in the revival of sporting activities.
“We appeal to all partners to continue supporting sports development in the state. We also appeal to the citizens and all organized forces to embrace unity, forgiveness, and peaceful coexistence to move Western Equatoria forward,” said Joseph.
He emphasized that the rehabilitation of Gbudue Stadium represents more than just sports development, noting that it symbolizes hope, peace, and a commitment to empowering the youth.
Meanwhile, Charles Gamboripai, State Minister for Culture, Youth, and Sports, commended the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that will boost football activities and strengthen youth participation in positive community development.
“We encourage partners and the private sector to support similar developments across the ten counties. Sports remains a powerful tool for unity and peacebuilding,” Gamboripai said.
Roto Justin, Deputy President of the Yambio Football Association, commended the UNMISS for rehabilitating the stadium, which has been idle for too long.
He emphasized the need to restore collapsed perimeter walls, gates, and the main pitch to create a safe and competitive environment for players and clubs.
Justin stated that a fully functioning stadium would enable the association to generate revenue through entry fees and assist in keeping young people engaged in sports and away from negative activities.
Gbudue Stadium, once a major sports hub, deteriorated after years of neglect due to prolonged insecurity and lack of investment.
Its rehabilitation now marks a new chapter for sports growth and social harmony in Western Equatoria State.
