By Sabri Dibaco
The Deputy Governor of Western Equatoria State, Justin Joseph Marona, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting athletics as preparations intensify for Western Equatoria State (WES) to host the 2026 Republican Championship.
Speaking to the media after the meeting with the president of WES Athletics, Marona praised the leadership of the WES Athletics Association, led by its president, Alison Wande, for working closely with the National Athletics Association to position the state as a host for the national competition.
“I am grateful for the resilience and commitment of the leadership of WES Athletics Association for delivering and ensuring WES is part of athletic activities in South Sudan,” Marona said.
The deputy governor noted that the lack of suitable sports facilities had previously prevented the state from hosting major national events but said that the challenge has now been addressed.
He acknowledged that insecurity and competing development priorities had slowed sports development in the state over the years but pledged greater government support to elevate athletics and enhance Western Equatoria’s visibility at the national level.
Marona also commended athletes Oscar and Kinako for representing the state in national and international competitions. He particularly praised Oscar for representing South Sudan in Qatar and winning medals.
“If three or four athletes from WES can become international stars, then we will be the most recognised state in South Sudan,” Morona stressed.
According to the deputy governor, the WES Athletics Association currently has 136 active athletes and more than 200 school children participating in athletics clubs across schools in the state.
He pledged to brief Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa on the progress made in securing additional support for athletics development.
Marona further applauded leaders of various sports associations in the state for their voluntary service to the community.
“They deserve support from the state government, development partners, and the community because of the work they are doing for our young people,” he said.
For his part, WES Athletics Association President Alison Wande expressed appreciation for the support the state government has provided to youth and sports activities.
“Our visit was to thank the Deputy Governor for his continued support and to brief him on our engagement with the National Athletics Association regarding preparations for Western Equatoria State to host the 2026 Republican Championship,” Wande said.
He confirmed that Western Equatoria is prepared to host the championship, noting that the state’s sports facility now meets the required standards.
“WES is ready to host the Republican Championship because the facility is now eligible. The National Athletic Association will send a team to Yambio to assess the stadium and do markings for final confirmation,” Wande confirmed.
The meeting concluded with both leaders agreeing to strengthen cooperation and mobilise additional support to advance the development of athletics in Western Equatoria State ahead of the 2026 Republican Championship.