By Deng Athian
The Aweil East community has raised more than USD 11,000 to support striker Akot Rooney, who is set to undergo specialised knee surgery.
The player sustained a serious injury during the ongoing Aweil Counties Tournament (ACT) in Juba.
The fundraising campaign, organised by volunteer sons and daughters of Aweil East County living in the capital, brought together 29 contributors in a remarkable show of solidarity.
Leading the donations was Vice President for the Service Cluster Hussein Abdelbagi, who contributed USD 5,000, the single largest donation.
Rooney suffered the injury while representing Aweil East in one of the tournament’s matches. Following medical assessments in Juba, doctors recommended that he seek specialised treatment abroad, with Egypt and India identified as the preferred destinations for surgery.
The head of the resource mobilisation committee, Rev. Stephen Mawien Mou, praised the generosity of the contributors, saying their response demonstrated the unity and compassion that define the Aweil East community.
He also thanked those who have continued to offer prayers and moral support to Rooney and his family during the difficult period.
The President of the Aweil East County Football Association in Juba, Mr. Diing Diing, described the fundraising effort as an inspiring act of togetherness.
He said the overwhelming response reflected the community’s commitment to standing by one of its own in a time of need.
With the required funds now secured, organisers say preparations are underway for Rooney’s travel abroad in the coming days to undergo the recommended surgery.
The football community remains hopeful that the talented striker will make a successful recovery and return to the game.
Rooney’s absence, however, will be a significant blow to Aweil East as the team prepares to face Aweil West in the Aweil Counties Tournament final.
Tournament organisers have yet to announce the official date for the championship match.