Juba, June 2024 – History was made as GS Construction officially handed over the newly renovated Juba National Stadium, a project that has quickly become one of South Sudan’s strongest symbols of unity and hope. The unveiling was graced by President Salva Kiir alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who described the stadium as “a beautiful jewel here in South Sudan.”
A Vision Realized
The Juba National Stadium project was first launched in 2019 but faced delays due to funding challenges and disputes over ownership. Despite the hurdles, GS Construction remained committed to completing the work. With support from FIFA, the dream was revived, culminating in a world-class facility that now stands as a testament to perseverance and vision.
The renovation was financed through nearly $7 million in FIFA funding: $5.1 million from the FIFA Forward Development Program and $1.8 million in COVID-19 relief. The investment delivered a 7,000-seat stadium complete with modern dressing rooms, a media tribune, VIP areas, and updated infrastructure designed to meet international standards.
More Than a Stadium
For South Sudan, this is more than concrete and steel. It is a symbol of progress, unity, and new opportunities for young talent. Football has always carried deep emotional weight in the country, and the stadium now offers a safe, world-class home for the Bright Stars and local clubs to showcase their abilities.
As Gianni Infantino remarked during the inauguration, the stadium is a space where football becomes “the language of unity”—a place where the country can come together, regardless of background.
First Match, Lasting Impact
The stadium’s official opening was marked by a World Cup qualifier between South Sudan and Sudan. Despite the Bright Stars’ 3–0 defeat, the occasion was a powerful moment of pride. Thousands of fans filled the stands, and the atmosphere carried the energy of a nation celebrating a new chapter. Some supporters even sang the Sudanese anthem—a striking gesture of solidarity and reconciliation.
Opening Doors for the Future
With CAF granting approval for continental matches to be hosted at the venue, the Juba National Stadium is set to become a launchpad for South Sudanese football on the regional and global stage. For GS Construction, the project represents more than successful delivery—it is a contribution to shaping the country’s future through infrastructure that inspires unity and growth.
Conclusion
The unveiling of South Sudan’s national stadium is not simply the completion of a construction project. It is the realization of a national dream. Through GS Construction’s commitment, FIFA’s investment, and the collective hope of the South Sudanese people, the stadium now stands as a beacon of pride, ambition, and resilience.
This is not just a venue for football. It is a stage for unity. A foundation for youth. And a symbol of South Sudan rising.