The new president of South Sudan’s Football Association Francis Amin believes the renowned sport to unite the war-torn East African nation.

Amin was elected the new president of the South Sudan Football Association (SSFA) on 15 June, beating Lual Maluk Lual and Arop Joh Aguer to the vote.

The official said will focus on taking South Sudan football to another level, and improving refereeing, coaching, women’s football and pitches around the country.

“I’m trying to use football as a tool to unite the people of South Sudan; football can bring them together as one,” Amin told the BBC.

He acknowledged that the economic challenges facing his nation are huge, but is hopeful of getting assistance from the continental and global football bodies.

South Sudan descended into civil war in 2013, two years after attaining independence from Sudan.

Via ST