Guya Scopas Bethuel
The European Union’s Deputy Head of Delegation, Lothar Jaschke, lauded South Sudanese athletes and the newly inaugurated National Olympic Committee (NOC) Executive Board as powerful ambassadors for the country during a ceremony in Juba on Wednesday.
Addressing the new board, Jaschke emphasized that national Olympic committees do more than organize sports; they place countries on the global map of excellence, foster diplomacy, and unite people through shared pride and achievement. “Everybody talks about the South Sudan Basketball Team,” he said. “It not only scored a huge success in terms of sport, but also carried South Sudan’s name and flag to the world and instilled a sense of pride.”
Jaschke highlighted sports as a tool for peace, reconciliation, and youth development, pointing out its potential to reduce school dropouts, prevent violence against girls, and build capacities. He encouraged South Sudanese youth to embrace sports as a way to stay healthy, smart, and confident, noting that physical activity fosters social inclusion and cultural diversity.
The EU representative also praised athletes as role models whose voices should be included in sports policy. He called for advisory councils with athlete representation, greater participation in national federations, and stronger partnerships between schools, public administrations, and sports organizations.
“Learning to be physically active from an early age is an investment in well-educated, healthy, productive, and happy generations,” Jaschke said, emphasizing the crucial role of schools in nurturing future athletes.
The Deputy Head of Delegation also encouraged participation in regional and international competitions, citing the upcoming African biking world championship in Kigali, Rwanda, as an opportunity for South Sudanese athletes to shine.
Concluding his remarks, Jaschke extended best wishes to NOC President Chuol Laam and his team, expressing the EU’s continued support for their work in promoting unity, peace, and national pride through sports. “For unity and peace and the glory of South Sudan, be assured we stand with you,” he said.