On 14 July 2015, the UNAMID, in collaboration with the Althoura South Youth Association, organized the Ramadan Cup football tournament for peace in the Al Wihda football arena, El Fasher, North Darfur.

The tournament was part of the “Darfur, talk peace now,” campaign and also included an Iftar gathering hosted by the Mission for the participating players as well as the local community of Althoura and surrounding areas.

During the month-long tournament, Imams and opinion leaders of Darfur highlighted the importance of Ramadan and the role of Darfuri youth in the ongoing peace process across the region. Additionally, they encouraged young people to work toward enhancing peaceful coexistence through dialogue.

Speaking on behalf of the Althoura South Youth Association, Bushara Abdelrehman, a member of the organization, expressed his appreciation for UNAMID’s support in organizing the tournament, adding that such sport events bring diverse people together in the spirit of peaceful participation thereby contributing to efforts for achieving peace and stability in Darfur.

On his part, Amar Ali, captain of the winning team Alburuj Stars, thanked the Mission for its continued encouragement and support for sporting activities across Darfur and called upon the gathered youth to work at peace building at all levels.

UNAMID hosted similar tournaments and Iftar gatherings in the Abu Shouk and Al Salam camps for the internally displaced near El Fasher, where youth groups, members of the local communities and religious leaders gathered together.At the end of each match, the winning teams received trophies and medals as well as prizes for the best players and goalkeepers.

UNAMID has trained 150 Imams and religious leaders across Darfur to encourage a dialogue for establishing sustainable peace in this conflict-ridden region.