FIFA Representative Pays Special Courtesy Call on Sports Minister

On Wednesday, 4th December 2024, the Technical Director of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Mr. Bah, and FIFA’s Regional Technical Consultant, Dominique Niyonzima, paid a special courtesy call on the Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James-Teima, at her office in Bishop House in Freetown.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Bah introduced Mr. Niyonzima, and the purpose of his visit to Sierra Leone. He explained the importance of the visit and the discussions with the Minister.

Mr. Niyonzima congratulated Madam Minister for being the first female sports minister in Sierra Leone, as well as in the entire West African region. He expressed his pleasure in meeting with her and shared that their discussions covered key areas of FIFA’s developmental plans, which could greatly benefit Sierra Leone’s football development.

He assured Madam Minister that any matters discussed during the visit would be considered and acted upon his return home, offering his support for the country’s football development through the SLFA.

In her response, Madam Minister expressed her gratitude to Mr. Niyonzima for the visit, hoping he would take fond memories of Sierra Leone with him. She also thanked President Julius Maada Bio for the trust and confidence he had placed in her by appointing her as the first female Minister of Sports in Sierra Leone.

Madam Minister urged Mr. Niyonzima to ensure that the outcomes of their discussions would be followed through for the benefit of Sierra Leone, particularly in developing football in the country, a sport beloved by the youth across the nation.

She reiterated that her doors were always open for positive discussions aimed at furthering the development of football in Sierra Leone.

Madam Minister concluded by wishing Mr. Niyonzima a safe journey home and thanked him once again for his special visit.

The Deputy Minister of Sports, Mr. Kai Lawrence Mbayo, was also present during the meeting.