Gonzaga FC wins UNMISS peace cup in Rumbek
The Gonzaga Football Club on Sunday, 19 March, won the Sport for Peace football tournament in front of over 5,000 spectators at Rumbek Freedom Square.
Speaking after the game, UNMISS Political Affairs Officer, Mr. Athiaan Majak Malou, urged the audience to embrace peace.
“On behalf of UNMISS, I would like to urge the citizens of Lakes State who are polarized by communal conflicts to unite. Peace is a collective responsibility that needs each and every one of us,” said Majak.
The speaker of the Western Lakes Assembly, Mr. Marik Nanga Marik, challenged the UNMISS peace cup champions to be ambassadors of peace in their day-to-day interactions.
“Congratulations to Gonzaga FC for winning this peace tournament, and my message to you and the rest is to work for peace every day and everywhere,” Nanga said.
The chairperson of Rumbek Local Football Association, Mr. Ater Deng Mabok, appealed to UNMISS for support with footballs.
“I am very thankful to UNMISS for organizing and supporting this peace competition that has just colourfully ended today. However, I would like to request UNMISS to provide us with enough footballs and level our pitch, and my association will help you fulfill your mandate,” Deng said.
Gonzaga defeated Zalan FC, 4 to 2, to clinch the trophy.