By Sabri Dibaco
Organisers of the upcoming Yambio Inter-Area Football Tournament have defended their decision to stage the competition at the renovated Gbudue National Stadium and introduce entrance fees, saying the move is aimed at improving security, supporting local football development, and ensuring the tournament’s long-term sustainability.
In an interview with the No. 1 Citizen Daily Newspaper, the tournament’s chairperson, Sabir Isaac Khamis Gbuku, said the decision was reached after consultations with football administrators and other stakeholders following the completion of renovation works at the stadium.
According to Sabir, the choice of venue goes beyond the availability of improved facilities. He said the tournament also seeks to revive the stadium as a vibrant community sports venue after years of limited activity.
“We chose the stadium because it can support the tournament financially, and it also provides better security. When you organise football in an open field, it is difficult to know who may be carrying dangerous items such as knives, arrows, or other weapons,” he said.
Sabir emphasised that football requires financial investment and encouraged residents to view purchasing tickets as a contribution toward the growth of local sports.
“Football is not cheap. It requires money to organise. If people can pay to watch international football, why not support our local players and communities?” he asked.
Organisers announced that ordinary spectators will pay 1,000 South Sudanese Pounds (SSP), while VIP tickets will cost 2,000 SSP. Sabir said the pricing was agreed upon collectively by the organising committee and stakeholders rather than being imposed unilaterally.
Responding to concerns that some residents may not afford the entrance fees, he said the committee carefully balanced affordability with the need to provide a safe and well-organised sporting environment.
“I am considering the common person, but at the same time I am considering their safety. Safety begins with you and ends with you,” he said.
Sabir further revealed that proceeds from ticket sales will be shared among participating teams, tournament organisers, and other stakeholders through a transparent accountability system that includes receipts and public financial reporting.
He also disclosed that local supporters and sponsors have already pledged financial assistance and prizes to boost the success of the tournament.
Calling for broader community support, Sabir described sports as an important platform for promoting peace, unity, and youth empowerment.
“Activities that people love should receive support because they help educate young people, promote peace, and create opportunities for our communities,” he said.
The chairperson urged football fans to attend the matches peacefully, refrain from bringing prohibited items into the stadium, and rally behind local teams to ensure a successful tournament.
The Yambio Inter-Area Football Tournament brings together teams from different residential areas to showcase talent, strengthen social cohesion, and promote peaceful engagement among young people. Organisers noted that previous editions of the tournament have largely depended on community contributions and support from partners due to financial constraints.
They believe that relocating the competition to the renovated Gbudue National Stadium and introducing controlled entry fees marks a significant step toward improving organisation, enhancing security, and establishing a sustainable model for future editions of the tournament.