The South Sudan Kickboxing Federation held a fundraising event Sunday to support the national team’s bid to defend its title at the 2026 World Muay Thai Championships in Thailand.
The event in Juba, which featured traditional performances, aimed to gather resources for the team’s participation in the championship, scheduled for March 12-17, 2026, in Pattaya.
South Sudan is the reigning champion after fighters James Majok Gau and Sky Okony won gold medals at this year’s tournament.
Puro Okello Obob, the federation’s president, told a press conference that the country is ready to maintain its top global ranking.
“Sports is a unifying factor. No one identifies themselves with their tribes in sport. This team makes South Sudan very proud,” he said. He urged the government and public to support the federation financially and morally.
Obob, who is also the head coach, said the fundraiser collected 2,000 South Sudanese pounds and that all donations, “even 1 USD,” are welcomed to help cover costs for the 2026 event.
Team captain Abednego Thon expressed optimism about defending the title. “South Sudan is the best and will always be,” he said. “We are proud to make our country great and we believe through sports we will be united and stronger.”
The federation said it is partnering with the financial services company Smart Capital to raise awareness and funds ahead of the championship.
“This is where champions are made,” said Smart Capital manager Silphano Olwoch. “As you know, we are the defending champion so we must maintain this.”