The Ministry of Youth and Sports (MoYS) in South Sudan is a government institution responsible for formulating and implementing policies, programs, and initiatives that empower the country’s youth and promote sports development. Established after South Sudan gained independence in 2011, the ministry plays a central role in addressing the aspirations and challenges of a predominantly youthful population, as over 70% of South Sudan’s citizens are under the age of 30.

Mandate and Objectives

The primary mandate of the Ministry of Youth and Sports includes:

• Youth Empowerment: Developing and implementing policies to enhance the participation of young people in national development, education, and employment opportunities.
• Sports Development: Promoting sports as a tool for national unity, health, and international representation.
• Civic Engagement: Encouraging youth to participate in peacebuilding, leadership, and governance to contribute to the nation’s stability and growth.

Key Functions

1. Policy Development: The ministry creates strategies that align with the national goals of peacebuilding, economic recovery, and sustainable development.
2. Capacity Building: Organizing training programs and workshops to equip young people with skills for self-reliance and leadership.
3. Sports Promotion: Supporting athletes, national sports teams, and grassroots sports initiatives to foster talent and provide international exposure.
4. Advocacy: Acting as a voice for young people in policymaking and addressing issues such as unemployment, education gaps, and social inclusion.

Structure and Partnerships

The Ministry operates through several departments and units focusing on youth affairs, sports development, and planning. It collaborates with international organizations, NGOs, and development partners to implement programs. Notable partners include the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UNICEF, and other stakeholders working in education, peacebuilding, and sports.

Achievements

The Ministry has made strides in:

• Organizing national sports events to foster unity and talent discovery.
• Launching initiatives to involve youth in peacebuilding and reconciliation.
• Supporting South Sudan’s participation in international sports competitions, including the Olympics and regional tournaments.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports remains a pivotal institution in South Sudan’s efforts to harness the potential of its youth and leverage sports as a unifying force in a country striving for peace and development.