Reject Violence, Embrace Sports – Minister Mary Urges Youth
By Kidega Livingstone
The Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Mary Nawai Martin, has urged South Sudanese youth in Central Equatoria State and other States three Administrative Areas to reject violence and instead channel their talents into sports as a pathway to development and self-reliance.
She made the remarks during the signing ceremony of a contract between South Sudanese professional baseball player Joseph Deng and the Los Angeles Dodgers Organization, an international baseball club based in the United States.
Minister Mary cautioned young people against being influenced by politicians who incite violence, encouraging them to pursue sports as a means of personal growth and national development.
“If you want to expose yourself, use your talent in sports so that you can earn scholarships, income, and be known to the entire world,” she said.
She added that sports provide an opportunity to positively represent the country and help remove South Sudan’s image from violence.
Meanwhile, the Secretary General of the South Sudan Baseball and Softball Association, Peter Daniel Deng, said the signing of the contract demonstrates that South Sudan has many talented and professional athletes.
“This event shows that sports provide a platform for national pride and unity,” he said, adding that South Sudanese athletes can compete at international standards.
“This also shows that South Sudanese professionals can meet international standards in any sport,” he noted.
The Representative of the Los Angeles Dodgers Organization, Mr. Will Nolan, said the signing of the contract marks the beginning of a new journey that requires strong commitment from both the player and the association.
“This is not the end of the game. It requires commitment from Deng himself and support from the South Sudan Baseball and Softball Association to ensure he meets his targets,” Nolan said.
He urged Deng’s family and all South Sudanese to support the young athlete.
However, Joseph Deng appealed to the government to increase support for youth with talents in sports and other productive activities to contribute to the country’s development.
“My request to the government is to support the youth so they can avoid joining the wrong groups,” he said. “These children belong to South Sudan, and they deserve opportunities to succeed.
Baseball and Softball game still new in South Sudan having been introduced in 2018.
