To improve relationships and engage informally with the government and local population, UNMISS organized a friendly volleyball match with the Lakes State team in the capital Rumbek today.

Speaking on behalf of the UNMISS State Coordinator, Human Rights Officer John Oziegbe said sports could unite people without reference to race, ethnicity, language or nation.

“This is an opportunity to be together again,” he said. “Yes, sport is a language that has been used to bring people of different backgrounds to together. It is a way of engaging the community to remain united.”

Director-General in the State Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Joseph Mabor Marial applauded UNMISS for organizing the sporting event.

“It is a rare chance to meet together to understand ourselves through this sporting activity,” Mr. Marial said.  “Sports have no boundaries, tribes, languages or religions.”

The match, attended by hundreds of Rumbek residents, was won by the state team with a score of 2-0.