The Central Equatoria State government has suspended all community sports tournaments in Juba with immediate effect following a series of violent incidents at local playgrounds.
The suspension was announced in Ministerial Order No. 97/2026, issued on Monday, 17 August, by the State Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Bush Buse.
The order cited recent incidents at Munuki and Buluk playgrounds, including injuries reported at Munuki and an alleged firearm-related intimidation incident at Buluk.
According to the ministry, the incidents have raised concerns over public safety and undermined the role of community sports in promoting peace and social cohesion.
“The suspension” will remain in effect pending investigations and a comprehensive administrative review, the order states.
The government said the decision is also intended to bring grassroots sports activities under a clearer regulatory framework and ensure that community tournaments comply with state sports laws.
Under the order, community sports associations and teams operating in Juba will be required to register with the Central Equatoria State Youth and Sports Registration Commission before they can organise tournaments.
Sports associations and clubs have also been prohibited from approving playgrounds for community tournaments without the required authorisation.
The order directs security agencies, including the State Police, National Security Service and Central Security Division, to enforce the suspension and safeguard public safety.
Those who violate the order could face administrative sanctions, including suspension or revocation of access to sports facilities, as well as possible legal action under applicable laws.
However, the suspension does not cover all sporting activities in Juba.
Leagues and tournaments organised under the Juba Football Association, South Sudan Football Federation and other legally recognised sports bodies are exempted, along with sports academies, school tournaments and registered clubs.
The ministry said the measures are aimed at restoring safety and integrity to grassroots sports while strengthening coordination and regulation of community sporting activities.
The order took effect on the date it was signed in Juba on 17 August 2026.
