Zahara FC crowned champions of the "Sport for Peace" tournament after a 2–0 victory over Zalzal FC at Renk Football Stadium, Upper Nile, on Sunday, March 29, 2026. — Photo Credit: Sabir Deng

The roar of the crowd at Renk Football Stadium on Sunday, March 29, signalled more than just a goal; it marked a rare moment of unity for a community defined by conflict and war. The football tournament brought together residents, returnees, and Sudanese refugees for a “Sport for Peace” tournament.

The Hope Institute transformed a standard football match into a powerful engine for reconciliation and long-term social healing. The initiative, organised by Hope Institute organisation with supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), leverages sports as a tool to bridge community divides and provide a platform for youth engagement.

Building Peace Through Play

Ajuang Chol, Community Mobilizer for the Hope Institute in Renk, stated during the Sunday event that the program’s primary goal is to promote reconciliation.

“This program aims to build peace and foster reconciliation within communities through sports, which bring everyone together,” Chol said. “Through the match held today, we worked to convey messages of peace to all participants.”

Beyond the football pitch, Chol explained that the initiative focuses on the broader development and empowerment of young people in the county. This includes a recent agricultural drive to support farmers with seeds in the Qaiqar area.

Skills for Economic Empowerment

The Hope Institute further highlighted its commitment to youth by providing vocational training in five key sectors: blacksmithing, carpentry, cooking, tailoring, and hairdressing.

“We conducted vocational training and have handed over the necessary equipment to the local government in Renk for distribution,” Chol added.

“This will allow beneficiaries to begin working and become productive members of the market. Our goal is to build the capacity of both boys and girls to utilize their energy positively.”

Women as Ambassadors of Peace

Representing the Women’s Union in Renk, Ms Sayyida Ajak emphasized the unique role of sports in enhancing community safety. “We view sports, especially football, as a key element that promotes peace across all ages and backgrounds,” Ms. Ajak said.

“The participation of women in these events strengthens the sense of security and highlights our vital role in fostering peace. Women can act as ambassadors of peace through sports, religious events, and conferences.”

She expressed hope that these efforts would expand to other counties within the state to further economic empowerment and community development.

Collaborative Success

A representative from the humanitarian organization ACTED expressed satisfaction with the high level of sportsmanship displayed during the tournament.

“I am happy to see the results of this work and would like to thank both teams for the high level of football they displayed today,” the representative noted, adding that they look forward to supporting similar future events.

As the program concludes, the Hope Institute has urged the youth of Renk to take full advantage of the vocational and economic opportunities provided to secure their livelihoods.