South Sudan kickboxing fights for peace, unity

They meticulously do there footwork at the Juba Youth Training Centre as they train for kickboxing.

Puro Okelo Obob, a martial arts fighter, promoter and professional kickboxer, teaches the eager team.

He uses the sport to overcome stereotypes and tribal differences in order to unite the war torn country.

“When I see them there, as you see them, united as they speak, when they laugh when they joke with each other, it means something to me. And also for all South Sudanese. Here, we try to do the best we can,” said Obob.

He is the driving force behind getting the young African nation accepted into the World Kickboxing Federation.

“I try to teach them to be themselves, to be human, to be more tolerant with others, to overcome tribalism because tribalism is a big problem here,” emphasized Obob.

The team has competed in several tournaments across Africa.

In a country wracked by war and poverty, Obob is hoping the centre can give the youth hope.