South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Simon Deng
South Sudan’s National Blind Football Team made history on Wednesday by being crowned champions of the African Championship Division 2, defeating hosts Uganda 3–0 in the final held in Kampala.
This victory not only secured the continental title but also officially qualified South Sudan for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, marking a proud milestone for the nation’s sports community.
The success follows South Sudan’s official admission as a member of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) during the IPC General Assembly held in September in South Korea, where a government delegation led by Monica Agum, the Undersecretary of Youth and Sport, participated alongside vice president of NPC Hung-Se Lim and general secretary Kim Bany.
Such a remarkable achievement was made possible through the support of former South Sudan National Football Team Coach Hung-Se Lim and Ki-Choon Kim, President of the Korean Civilian Mission, along with Peter Baptist Abakar, President of NPC, who have provided continuous assistance to the team.
The Vice President of the National Paralympic Committee, Hakim Chris, stated on Thursday that the Blind Football Team’s victory has officially qualified South Sudan for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
“This is not just for South Sudan; this is for all of Africa. We have shown that with resilience and unity, anything is possible. Our sight may be limited, but our vision for gold in 2028 is clear,” said Chris, following this landmark victory for African para sports.
Kim Byung Kab, Chairman of Hoolala Chicken Franchisers, whose contribution was crucial in empowering the team’s progress, indicated that efforts are underway to create the necessary infrastructure and environment for South Sudan’s participation in the LA 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“The recent victory is expected to accelerate the growth and recognition of para sports in South Sudan, paving the way for even greater achievements on the global stage,” said Kab regarding the first Division II victory in Africa’s history.
Last year, they supported South Sudan’s Blind Football Team with uniforms, equipment, and technical training, helping to establish a foundation for para sports development in the country.
Sophia Mohammed, Country Director of Light for the World South Sudan, remarked that the Blind Football Team’s success is a testament to their hard work and determination, proving that people with disabilities can achieve great things when given the opportunity.
“We are so proud of the team for this incredible achievement; this is only the beginning. Together with our partner, the Adidas Foundation, we will continue to build on the example set by the Blind Football Team to use sport as a powerful tool for peace, inclusion, and hope across South Sudan,” said Mohammed.
South Sudan has achieved a historic milestone during the IBSA Blind Football African Championships (Division II), hosted by Uganda under the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA).
