Football has long been one of the most powerful tools for promoting peace, unity and cooperation among communities in South Sudan. Across the country, people gather on football grounds to support their teams, celebrate victories and enjoy the spirit of competition.
However, it is worrying that some football matches are increasingly becoming sources of hatred, violence and division instead of bringing people together.
In the past, football was regarded as a game that united people regardless of their ethnic backgrounds, economic status or political differences. Players competed on the pitch, supporters cheered from the sidelines, and everyone returned home after the final whistle. Winning and losing were accepted as part of the game.
Today, however, this spirit of sportsmanship appears to be fading in some communities. The difficult economic situation, social divisions and existing grievances may be contributing to tensions that spill over onto football grounds.
Instead of using sports to promote friendship, some individuals turn matches into opportunities to express anger and settle personal or communal disputes.
Reports that a referee was recently shot dead following a decision to issue a yellow card to a player accused of committing a foul are deeply disturbing. If the incident is confirmed as reported, it demonstrates how dangerous it can become when people allow anger and intolerance to override reason and respect for human life.
A referee’s responsibility is to enforce the rules of the game. Like players, referees can make decisions that supporters disagree with, but such disagreements must never justify threats, assaults or murder. A yellow card is a disciplinary measure in football, not a reason to take someone’s life.
Football authorities, community leaders, parents and security institutions must work together to prevent violence at sporting events. Organisers should establish clear rules, educate players and supporters about fair play, and ensure that appropriate security measures are in place. Anyone who commits a crime should be held accountable through the law, regardless of their community or position.
Young people, in particular, must understand that football is a platform for building relationships, developing talents and promoting peaceful coexistence. Supporting a team should never mean hating another community. Rivalry must remain on the pitch and end when the match is over.
As South Sudan continues to build its national identity, citizens must reject habits that encourage violence and return to a culture of respect, dialogue and peaceful living. Economic hardship and social grievances are real challenges, but violence cannot solve them.
Communities must address their differences through constructive engagement rather than confrontation.
Let football once again become a symbol of hope, friendship and national unity. The game should bring people together, not leave families mourning the loss of their loved ones.
Every community has a responsibility to protect this spirit and ensure that football remains a peace game.
God protect South Sudan.
Be the spectator!