A scene near Juba National Stadium, where young entrepreneurs have set up a pop-up car wash business. The cleaning of luxury vehicles, such as these three V8s, provides a crucial source of income and employment for local youth. (Photo courtesy of Mark Boom)

JUBA, South Sudan (Eye Radio) – Juba National Stadium is now a vibrant economic hub, providing income for many families—from supporting women entrepreneurs running local businesses to training youth and integrating them into the community.

On June 11, 2024, the South Sudan Football Association officially reopened the newly renovated Juba National Stadium in the capital.

The ceremony was attended by President Salva Kiir and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, marking a historic moment for sports development in the world’s youngest nation.

The stadium renovation, valued at nearly 7 million US dollars, was funded primarily through FIFA initiatives, with 5.1 million dollars from the FIFA Forward Development Programme and 1.8 million dollars from a COVID-19 relief loan.

The upgrades included four modern dressing rooms, team benches, a media tribune, VIP areas, and other essential facilities, transforming the stadium into a 7,000-capacity venue.

Looking ahead, FIFA Forward 3.0 plans to support further upgrades and the construction of South Sudan’s first national technical center, which will serve as a hub for coaching, refereeing, and youth football development.

A Hub of Jobs and Training Opportunities

Beyond hosting football matches, Juba National Stadium has become a major source of employment and training for the local community.

Jalal Abdullah Duka, Director of Juba National Stadium, says: “The stadium operates with eight departments: cleaning, turf management, seating, security, maintenance, and more. It is not only used for football but also for social, cultural, and religious events. Schools and football academies regularly use the stadium for activities.”

Since the renovation, the stadium has provided jobs for 42 individuals in areas such as cleaning, security, and pitch maintenance.

Another 23 boys and girls have received training to serve as ball attendants during matches, earning income while learning responsibility and teamwork. Most are students, working in shifts after school hours.

“We want the stadium to empower the community, not just host games,” Duka explains.

Lives Transformed Outside the Stadium Gates

The stadium’s impact extends far beyond its gates. Mothers and young vendors have found opportunities to earn a livelihood by selling food, drinks, and snacks during match days.

Around fifty car washers operate near the stadium, benefiting from the steady stream of visitors.

“Sometimes I earn 100,000 South Sudanese pounds, enough to support my family for a day or two. On match days, it’s even better,” Khawaja, a young man washing cars, shares.

“When matches happen and the weather is good, I can earn 200,000 to 300,000 pounds. The income helps us provide for school fees, food, and family needs,” Dada John Emmanuel, another car washer, added.

“Even though work stops when it rains, I earn enough on match days to support my family and siblings. Some days I make up to 4,000 pounds, which helps with school fees and household expenses,” Malou Jel Malou, a SSPDF soldier who works as a car washer in his free time, stated.

Women Entrepreneurs Thrive

For many women, the stadium has become a lifeline for entrepreneurship. Sidonia Anthony, who has sold tea at the stadium since 2020, stated that: “I can now cover my children’s school fees and household expenses. On match days, I earn up to 150,000 pounds, which is a huge help.”

Nawal Jibril, selling tea and juice, adds: “On good days, I earn up to 250,000 pounds, enough to provide for my family’s daily needs. This opportunity has been life-changing.”

Khadija Zeitoun, who specializes in iced juice, says: “I make up to 100,000 pounds on hot match days. It helps me support my family, and I’m grateful for the chance to work here.”

Inside the Stadium: Keeping It Running

The stadium’s smooth operation relies on a team of dedicated staff. Daniel Mayan, a security guard, has worked at the stadium since 2009:

“We protect the stadium’s property, including cameras and equipment. Our team is small, but we ensure everything runs safely during events.”

Mark Ton, in charge of pitch maintenance, says: “Maintaining the turf is a big responsibility. A well-kept pitch ensures players can perform at their best, and I take pride in my work.”

More Than a Stadium

Today, Juba National Stadium is more than a sports venue. It is a hub for economic activity, youth training, and community engagement. From ball boys learning teamwork to women entrepreneurs earning income, the stadium supports hundreds of families directly and indirectly.

It has become a symbol of hope and opportunity, demonstrating that investment in sports infrastructure can bring tangible benefits to communities, beyond the excitement of the game.

“Football has the power to transform lives. Here at Juba National Stadium, we’re seeing that change every day,” says Duka.