Central Equatoria suspends community sports tournaments in Juba

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The Central Equatoria State Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports has suspended all community sports tournaments in Juba with immediate effect, citing recent violent incidents and concerns over public safety.

The suspension was announced in Ministerial Order No. 07/2026, signed Monday by Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Bush Buse.

The order follows recent incidents at community playgrounds, including violence at Munuki Playground that resulted in injuries and an alleged intimidation incident involving a firearm at Buluk Playground.

The ministry said the incidents threaten public safety, undermine the peaceful image of sports and have drawn negative attention on social media.

The suspension applies to community sports tournaments organized in Juba pending investigations and a comprehensive administrative review.

However, the order excludes leagues and tournaments organized under the Juba Football Association, South Sudan Football Federation, legally recognized sports bodies, sports academies, school tournaments and registered clubs.

The ministry also prohibited sports associations and clubs from approving playgrounds for community sports tournaments in Juba during the suspension period.

Under the order, community sports associations and teams must register with the Central Equatoria State Youth and Sports Registration Commission and obtain authorization before organizing tournaments, in accordance with state sports laws and procedures.

Security agencies, including the State National Security Directorate, State Police and Central Security Division, have been directed to enforce the order and safeguard public safety.

The ministry warned that non-compliance could result in administrative sanctions, including suspension or revocation of access to sports facilities, as well as possible legal action under applicable sports and land-use laws.

The order said the measures are intended to strengthen coordination, registration and regulation of grassroots sports activities while promoting peaceful coexistence and compliance with the law.

The suspension took effect upon its signing on Aug. 17, 2026.