Ghanaian peacekeeper’s family donates sports equipment to South Sudan youth team
The deputy commanding officer of the Ghana Formed Police Unit (FPU-1) under UNMISS, Chief Superintendent Rosina Adwoa Donkor Gariba, has donated footballs, jerseys, sports pants, candies, detergents and toiletries to the Holy Trinity Youth Football Team of St Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Bentiu.
The donation which took place on January 10, this year, during a ceremony organised at the church premises, was aimed at encouraging the youth to pursue their dreams through sports and education.
Chief Superintendent Gariba, supported by four senior officers and 15 other ranks from the Ghana FPU, explained that the items were purchased by her husband, Commissioner of Police Dr Vance Baba Gariba, a veteran peacekeeper, who brought them during his recent visit for the unit’s medal ceremony.
Discipline, perseverance
Addressing the gathering, she said sports instilled discipline, perseverance and unity, adding that she was inspired by her community policing patrols to support South Sudan’s young people. She expressed the belief that some of the players could one day represent their country internationally, referencing the Bright Stars basketball team’s historic Olympic qualification in 2023.
The Field Office Police Coordinator Madam Sireh Jabang, who was the special guest of honour, praised the Gariba family for their generosity, describing the donation as proof that the world had not forgotten South Sudan.
Inspiration
She urged all stakeholders to collaborate for peace and encouraged the youth to draw inspiration from the gesture.
Church leaders also expressed gratitude. Father John Gatluck offered the opening prayer and thanked the UN police.
Introduction
Coach Simon Gatluck introduced the key players, while Bishop Christian commended the Gariba family for their personal initiative, noting that the gift came from their hearts rather than institutional resources. He encouraged South Sudan to emulate Ghana’s reputation for peace and closed the event with a prayer.
Broader commitment
The donation reflects the Ghana FPU’s broader commitment to community engagement and youth empowerment as part of the UNMISS mandate to protect civilians and promote stability in South Sudan.
