NPC South Sudan begins Paralympic journey with IPC onboarding Session

By Mogga Anthony

Juba, 11 December 2025 — The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) held an onboarding session this week for the newly admitted National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of South Sudan, marking the first formal step in integrating the country into the global Paralympic Movement. The virtual meeting included IPC representatives Nicole Isimbi and IPC Brand Manger Giulia Brustia, alongside NPC South Sudan officials Hakim Darious Chris and Kim Bany Joak.

Orientation to the Paralympic System

During the session, Nicole Isimbi, IPC Africa Coordinator, outlined the IPC’s mission, governance structure, and strategic priorities. She emphasized the organization’s athlete-centered approach and its global network of 211 member committees. NPC South Sudan, formally accepted during the IPC General Assembly in South Korea, expressed readiness to begin implementing IPC standards and procedures.

Branding and emblem requirements

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the development of the NPC’s institutional emblem. IPC Brand Manager Giulia Brustia explained the mandatory elements for all NPC emblems, including the Agitos symbol and the use of the term “Paralympic.” She confirmed that South Sudan will receive official design files, technical specifications, and access instructions for the IPC’s emblem approval platform.

Athlete classification and Data Management

Athlete classification was identified as an urgent priority for the NPC. Isimbi noted that without classification, athletes cannot compete internationally or enter qualification pathways for future Paralympic Games. The IPC will provide South Sudan with the necessary documents and support to activate its account in the Sport Data Management System (SDMS), which manages athlete information across five IPC-governed sports.

Preparing for long-term development

Discussions also covered future collaboration under the IPC Development Model. NPC South Sudan will review the relevant Memorandum of Understanding, which outlines governance, administrative, and sport development support available to emerging NPCs. Both sides also discussed a potential IPC visit to South Sudan in 2026 to assess structures and identify development needs.

Early achievements

Despite operational challenges, the NPC shared recent accomplishments, including its official admission to the IPC and a regional trophy won by South Sudan’s blind football team in 2025.

The IPC will now provide South Sudan with branding materials, SDMS access forms, and further guidance on governance and sport development. With foundational work underway, NPC South Sudan is expected to begin building the systems required to support athlete development and future international participation.