The South Sudan Football Federation signed a cooperation agreement with its Qatari counterpart, targeting long-term football development.
The agreement was signed by SSFF President Mr. Francis Amin and QFA President Mr. Jassim bin Rashid Al-Buainain, reviving and expanding a Memorandum of Understanding first established in 2020.
The renewed partnership focuses on enhancing football administration, national team development, media and communications, sports and data analysis, as well as sports medicine.
The signing ceremony was attended by South Sudan’s Ambassador to Qatar, Ms. Lily Martin Mangil, underscoring the diplomatic importance of the agreement and the growing sports cooperation between the two countries.
Speaking after the signing, Mr. Amin described the deal as a landmark moment for South Sudanese football, saying it would help address long-standing gaps in technical expertise and institutional capacity.
He said the federation is committed to fast-tracking implementation of the agreement to ensure tangible benefits for players, coaches, and administrators.
“This partnership gives us an opportunity to strengthen our structures and support our athletes to compete effectively at both regional and international levels,” Amin said.
“The provisions of this agreement will be implemented without delay so that our football can grow in a sustainable and professional manner.”
Under the memorandum, Qatar will support South Sudan in areas including tournament organization, referee and coaching development, media relations, performance analysis, data analytics, and sports medicine.
These components are expected to improve not only player performance but also governance, planning, and professionalism within the sport.
QFA President Mr. Al-Buainain emphasized the value of international cooperation in football development, noting that investment in sport is an investment in young people and national unity.
He reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to sharing expertise and supporting South Sudan’s efforts to build a competitive football system.
“Football has the power to inspire and unite communities,” he said. “We are pleased to support South Sudan as it works to develop its football structures and create opportunities for its young talents.”
The agreement comes as South Sudan continues to invest in rebuilding and strengthening its football infrastructure, with a growing focus on youth development and national team competitiveness.
Both federations expressed optimism that the renewed collaboration would deliver long-term benefits, helping South Sudan raise standards across all levels of the game.
As implementation begins, stakeholders are hopeful the agreement will mark a turning point in the growth and professionalization of football in the world’s youngest nation.
