The Government of Eastern Equatoria State has approved a budget of 72 million South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) to host the final match of the 10th edition of the Monyiemiji Tournament in Torit.
The announcement was made by State Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Akileo Mboya Peter, who said the decision was reached during a regular cabinet meeting after reviewing a budget proposal submitted by the Monyiemiji Tournament management.
He added that the approval followed a pledge made by Governor Louis Lobong Lojore during the official launch of the 10th edition of the tournament on 20 June 2026 in Juba.
According to the minister, Governor Lobong pledged that the final match would be brought back to Torit, the hometown of the Monyiemiji Tournament, instead of being played outside the state.
“The Council of Ministers appreciated the move of our governor to invite the Monyiemiji Tournament to be played in Torit, the hometown of the tournament,” he said. “The state government welcomed this initiative and approved a budget of SSP 72 million.”
He explained that the approved funds will support key logistical needs, including team transportation, accommodation, feeding, and other operational requirements necessary to successfully host the final match. The minister added that the state government will rely on locally available resources and mobilization of local revenue to support the activity.
“Sport by its nature is a tool for peace. It is a tool for love, unity, and social interaction. Seeing communities playing together and interacting together creates an opportunity for peaceful coexistence,” Mboya said. “We want our communities in Eastern Equatoria to come to Torit and see how these communities are living and interacting in Juba. This will promote peaceful coexistence, unity, and love among our people.”
Meanwhile, Okimo David of the Monyiemiji Football Association (MFA) in Juba welcomed the government’s commitment but said the approved budget remains below their original proposed budget of more than SSP 100 million.
“We appreciate the support, but we still have some concerns, especially on operational funds,” he explained. “The final will be completely free, meaning we will not collect gate fees, so we need more support to make it successful.”
The tournament has already completed the quarterfinal stage, with semifinal matches expected to begin on 27 July 2026. The management has tentatively planned 8 August 2026 as the date for the grand finale.
For his part, Mubarak Roben Emmy, Deputy President of Torit Local Football Association, said Torit is fully prepared to host what he described as one of the biggest sporting events in the state.
“The whole of Eastern Equatoria is ready to host the Monyiemiji Tournament final,” he said. “There is nothing that can stop us from hosting this biggest tournament of its kind.”
He said the decision on whether spectators will watch the final match freely will depend on the government, adding that the approved budget provides room for such arrangements.
“This final is coming here because of peace; our state will progress, and we stand for peace,” he said.
The Monyiemiji Tournament, which brings together communities through football and cultural exchange, continues to gain recognition as a platform for promoting peace, youth engagement, talent development, and unity.
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