By Sabri Dibaco
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has commended South Sudan’s national basketball teams for their remarkable performances on the international stage, describing their achievements as a source of national pride and a reflection of the country’s growing global reputation.
President Kiir made the remarks on Monday while receiving a briefing from the president of the South Sudan National Basketball Federation, Luol Deng Ajou, at the State House in Juba.
During the meeting, the president praised the federation’s efforts in developing basketball across the country and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting the growth of the sport.
“The success of our national basketball teams has brought pride to South Sudan and demonstrated the immense talent and determination of our young people,” President Kiir said, according to a statement from the Presidency.
He emphasised that the government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for sports development, recognising basketball as an important platform for promoting national unity, youth empowerment, and the country’s image on the international stage.
President Kiir also commended the South Sudan National Basketball Federation for its dedication to identifying and nurturing young talent, noting that the federation’s work has contributed significantly to the country’s rising profile in international basketball.
For his part, Luol Deng Ajou briefed the president on the federation’s recent achievements, ongoing program, and plans to strengthen basketball development across the country. He expressed appreciation for the government’s continued support and reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to building a sustainable basketball system capable of producing world-class athletes.
South Sudan has gained international recognition in recent years through the outstanding performances of its men’s and women’s national basketball teams, inspiring a new generation of young athletes and attracting global attention to the country’s sporting potential.
South Sudan has emerged as one of Africa’s fastest-rising basketball nations since joining the international basketball community.
The national men’s team made history by qualifying for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup and later secured qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, becoming the first South Sudanese team to compete in the Olympics.
The country’s continued investment in basketball development, supported by the South Sudan National Basketball Federation and prominent basketball figures, has strengthened youth participation and elevated South Sudan’s standing in international sport.