Introduction to Peace Tournaments

A significant event has taken place in Yei County, aimed at promoting peace and unity among communities. The inter-community peace tournament is an initiative that brings together different communities to compete in sports, fostering a spirit of friendship and cooperation.

The Purpose of the Tournament

The primary goal of the tournament is to promote peace and understanding among the various communities in Yei County. By engaging in sports, participants can put aside their differences and work towards a common goal, which is to win the tournament. This approach helps to build trust and strengthen relationships between communities that may have been divided in the past.

How the Tournament Works

The tournament features a variety of sports, including football, basketball, and volleyball. Teams from different communities compete against each other, with the winning team receiving a prize. The tournament is not just about winning, but also about promoting fair play, respect, and teamwork.

Benefits of the Tournament

The inter-community peace tournament has several benefits for the communities involved. It helps to reduce tensions and conflicts between communities, promotes social cohesion, and provides a platform for young people to engage in positive activities. The tournament also helps to promote economic development, as local businesses benefit from the influx of visitors and participants.

The Role of Community Leaders

Community leaders play a crucial role in the success of the tournament. They help to organize the event, promote it to their communities, and encourage participation. They also help to resolve any conflicts that may arise during the tournament, ensuring that the event remains a positive and peaceful experience for all involved.

Conclusion

The inter-community peace tournament in Yei County is a positive step towards promoting peace and unity among communities. By engaging in sports and competing in a friendly and respectful manner, participants can help to build bridges between communities and promote a culture of peace and cooperation. The tournament is a testament to the power of sports to bring people together and promote positive change, and it serves as a model for other communities to follow.

Introduction to the London Marathon

The London Marathon is one of the most prestigious running events in the world, attracting top athletes from around the globe. This year’s event has been dealt a blow with the withdrawal of two of its biggest stars: Ruth Chepngetich and Peres Jepchirchir.

Withdrawal of Top Athletes

Ruth Chepngetich, the world record holder, has pulled out of the London Marathon due to not being physically and mentally ready for the race. Chepngetich, who became the first woman to clock a sub-two hour 10 minute time at the 2024 Chicago marathon, expressed her sadness at missing the event but hopes to return in 2026. In a statement, she said, "I’m not in the right place mentally or physically to race my best in London and I am therefore withdrawing."

Injury Forces Defending Champion Out

Defending champion Peres Jepchirchir has also been forced to withdraw from the London Marathon due to an ankle injury. Jepchirchir, who won last year’s London Marathon in a record time of two hours 16 minutes 16 seconds, was looking forward to defending her title but her injury has made it impossible. She stated, "Winning last year’s London Marathon was one of the highlights of my career and I was very much looking forward to returning this year to defend my title. Unfortunately, my injury has made this impossible but I am focused on getting healthy again and hope to return to London again in the future when I’m fully fit."

Replacement Announced

In the absence of Chepngetich and Jepchirchir, organizers have announced that Vivian Cheruiyot will take a spot in the elite field. Cheruiyot, 41, has run the London Marathon three times and won it in 2018. Her experience and skill will undoubtedly make her a strong contender in this year’s event.

Conclusion

The withdrawal of Ruth Chepngetich and Peres Jepchirchir from the London Marathon is a significant blow to the event. However, the addition of Vivian Cheruiyot to the elite field ensures that the competition will still be fierce and exciting. Despite the setbacks, the London Marathon promises to be an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike. The event will showcase the determination and perseverance of the world’s top runners, and fans can look forward to a thrilling competition.

Fish Traders in Jonglei State Face High Taxes and Challenges

The fish traders in Jonglei State’s capital, Bor, are facing numerous challenges due to the high taxes imposed on them by the local government. These taxes are affecting their ability to grow their businesses and succeed as entrepreneurs.

The Impact of High Taxes

According to the traders, the taxes are having a detrimental impact on their ability to make a profit. One young business entrepreneur, Michael Kung Atem, expressed his concerns about the high taxes. "Last time that I came here, the government could take 50% of what I do. When the government is taking something from what I do, they need to provide some service for me so that it should protect my fish and where I stay," he stressed.

The Benefits of Selling Fish

Despite the challenges, selling fish has been beneficial for many traders. Kulang, a fish trader, said that selling fish helps him to sustain his family by paying tuition fees for himself and the children and also medication for the family in times of sickness. He also revealed that profits vary with the type and size of fish that customers want from the market.

Challenges Faced by Fish Traders

The fish traders in Bor face numerous challenges, including the lack of proper storage facilities for their fish stock, excessive taxes, and high transportation costs. Martha Majok, a trader from Juba, complained about the inaccessibility of roads that turn slippery during the rainy season. She also expressed the need for a spacious storage area for fish, citing the absence of suitable facilities and shelter.

High Transportation Costs

Jacob Mabor, a seasoned wholesale buyer, said that too many taxes and the high cost of transportation are affecting their business. "If the price of fuel is very high, everything will go up. So if you buy the fish and sell it, the money that you earn will be at a loss," Mabor disclosed.

The Need for Government Support

The fish traders are calling on the government to provide them with conducive market platforms for them to connect with their buyers at better prices. Marko Majur, the acting chairperson of the Jonglei Fishing Trader’s Union, said that the government should support the fish traders by providing them with better infrastructure and reducing the taxes imposed on them.

The Fishing Industry in Jonglei State

The fishing industry in Jonglei State is a significant contributor to the local economy. The state is home to a large and diverse freshwater ecosystem, with a wide range of fish species. The completion of the new asphalt Juba-Bor Highway has eased transportation and ushered in new opportunities, particularly in the form of the now flourishing fish business.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the fish traders in Jonglei State’s capital, Bor, are facing numerous challenges due to the high taxes imposed on them by the local government. Despite these challenges, selling fish has been beneficial for many traders, providing them with a source of income and employment opportunities. The government should support the fish traders by providing them with better infrastructure and reducing the taxes imposed on them. By doing so, the fish traders can grow their businesses and contribute to the local economy.