South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
Arsenal Football Club fans in Juba are encouraging residents of the capital to come together for a community fundraising effort aimed at purchasing oxygen cylinders for Al Shabab Children’s Hospital and Juba Teaching Hospital.
This initiative coincides with a much-anticipated friendly football match between Arsenal and Liverpool fans, scheduled for tomorrow at Buluk Playground. The match is part of a broader campaign by Arsenal supporters to give back to the community through sport and charity.
Speaking exclusively to The Dawn Newspaper, Sarah Kiko, one of the organisers and a devoted Arsenal fan, emphasised the importance of the initiative.
“This match is more than just football; it’s a way to bring people together to support our hospitals, especially the children who need life-saving oxygen,” Kiko said. “In the past, we have managed to donate six oxygen cylinders and 15 hospital beds through similar events.”
Kiko noted that the impact of these donations has been significant.
“Before our contributions, the hospital was struggling with oxygen supply. Now they have at least eight cylinders, and we’ve been told this has helped reduce deaths and save lives,” she said.
The fundraising match is expected to attract large crowds, with participation from fans of both Arsenal and Liverpool. Organisers stress that the event is not just for football enthusiasts but for all citizens who believe in community responsibility.
“This is not about Arsenal or Liverpool fans; it is about unity and compassion,” Kiko explained. “We want everyone in Juba to come out, support the cause, and donate whatever they can. Even the smallest amount can help save a life.”
Kiko encouraged parents to support their children’s involvement in sports, noting that football can be a tool for positive social change.
The Arsenal fan group has a history of charity work. In 2020, they donated oxygen cylinders and conducted a general hospital clean-up at Al Shabab Children’s Hospital, a gesture that was widely appreciated by the local community.
Tomorrow’s event promises more than just entertainment and sport; it is a testament to the power of unity and grassroots efforts in improving healthcare in South Sudan.
