Building Success: Aliou Cisse’s Mission in Libya

Introduction

Despite reports that he joined as one of the best-paid international coaches in Africa, Cisse insists he is not a hired gun, but someone who can lay the foundations for success.

In Senegal, he spent a decade shaping a generation that would go on to secure the country’s first senior continental title.

He hopes to have a similar impact in Libya after agreeing an initial two-year deal.

“This country is full of talent and potential,” he said. “My job is to put Libyan football in the place it deserves.

“I am a man of a project, a builder of generations. In Senegal I had a fruitful 10-year project.

“I’m full of passion and confidence that I will repeat the same thing here.”

Challenges in Libyan Football

Libya have not qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) since 2012 and Cisse has already seen several aspects which can be improved.

“The players possess undeniable technical skills and there’s an abundance of raw talent,” he said.

“What’s lacking, however, is experience and improved game management.

“Talent alone isn’t enough at the African level – we need more commitment, fighting spirit, confidence and discipline to reach our goals.”

Areas for Improvement

• Enhancing game management skills
• Building experience among players
• Fostering commitment, fighting spirit, confidence, and discipline

Conclusion

Aliou Cisse’s mission in Libya goes beyond just coaching a team – it’s about building a legacy of success and nurturing the talents of the future. With his track record in Senegal, there’s no doubt that he has the passion and determination to elevate Libyan football to new heights. Through hard work, dedication, and a focus on key areas for improvement, Cisse aims to turn the tide for Libyan football and lead the national team to glory once again.

Call for Immediate Release of Dr. Riek Machar Teny to Prevent Bloodshed and Promote Peace in South Sudan

Concerned Citizens of South Sudan

March 28, 2025 (SSNA) — The concerned citizens of South Sudan are calling for the immediate release of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny to prevent bloodshed and promote peace and stability in the country.

House Arrest of Dr. Riek Machar Teny

On March 26, 2025, the chairman of SPLM/A-IO, the First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan, Dr. Riek Machar Teny, was placed under house arrest in Juba, which raised widespread concern, with many viewing it as a provocative action that could escalate violence in the country.

Dr. Machar had returned to Juba in 2020 without his forces, based on assurances from President Salva Kiir Mayardit that he would implement the 2018 peace agreement. However, his house arrest has raised questions about the government’s commitment to peace. The international community, including the Troika, IGAD, African Union, and United Nations, had pressured Dr. Machar to return to Juba to implement the peace agreement in 2020. His acceptance of this request was seen as a patriotic move to bring peace to the country.

However, the lack of security arrangements for Dr. Machar’s return led to the defection of General Simon Gatwech Dual, who remains in the bush, waging war against President Kiir’s regime. The citizens of South Sudan are urging President Kiir to release Dr. Machar from house arrest, respecting the peace agreement that was promised to the world. They fear that another war could break out if the president does not abide by the agreement.

Potential Consequences of Dr. Machar’s House Arrest

• The escalation of violence in the country due to Dr. Machar’s house arrest, which could lead to renewed fighting between his supporters and government forces, potentially escalating into full-blown conflict, undermining the 2018 peace agreement.
• The increase in tensions between different ethnicities and political groups, potentially leading to further instability and a humanitarian crisis.
• The likelihood of renewed conflict leading to a humanitarian crisis, with potential displacement of civilians, increased hunger, and disease.

International Community’s Response

The international community has condemned Dr. Machar’s house arrest and will increase pressure on the government to release him and respect the peace agreement. The situation is volatile given the history of the 2013 civil war as the situation continues to unfold in the country.

Daniel Buom Meat Kujock

Contact email: [email protected]

MSF Hospital in Old Fangak: A Heartbreaking Attack

The Day of the Attack

David Charo Kahindi, MSF’s Medical Coordinator in South Sudan, was in Old Fangak the day the hospital was bombed. He was part of the team extinguishing the fire and treating and evacuating the wounded patients.

• Helicopters flying overhead
• Patients and staff in danger
• Bombing lasted for about an hour

Desperate Efforts to Save the Hospital

As soon as the bombing quieted, David rushed to the hospital to find chaos and destruction.

The pharmacy was on fire.

Everyone, including the community, tried to extinguish the flames, fearing a second explosion. The intent was clear—total destruction.

• Buckets of water used to put out the fire
• Fuel tanks nearby added to the danger
• Five hours to fully extinguish the flames

Heartbreaking Discoveries Inside the Hospital

Inside the hospital, David found a scene of devastation.

• No patients in the wards
• Stabilizing new patients with limited supplies
• Evacuating patients to a safer village

Continued Efforts and Support

With thousands fleeing to the same village, the team faced overwhelming challenges.

We pray there are no more wounded, but we continue to hear of bombing in nearby areas.

• Urgent request for medical supplies
• Support from the United Nations
• Keeping a health post running from a single tent

A Lifeline Lost

The hospital in Old Fangak was more than just a building—it was a lifeline for the community.

Today, there is nothing left. Hospitals should never be targets. I utterly condemn this attack.

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