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President His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has presented medals and trophies to Sierra Leone’s national athletes across thirteen sporting disciplines, celebrating their outstanding performances on the international stage.
During the ceremony at State House, he also officially launched the Football for Schools Project, a major initiative aimed at nurturing young football talent nationwide.
Athletes from disciplines including karate, scrabble, gymnastics, volleyball, cricket, basketball, boxing, cycling, athletics, and women’s football attended the event. President Bio commended their dedication and patriotism, calling them national heroes.
“We are here today to acknowledge and compliment you for the great job you have done for our beloved nation,” he said.
The President gave special recognition to the Sierra Queens, the Under-17 Female Football Team, and other women’s teams for breaking barriers and achieving remarkable results, including winning the WAFU A Championship.
“I am proud of you, and I want you to also feel proud of yourselves. You have proven that Sierra Leonean women can compete and excel at the highest levels,” he added.
Highlighting sports as a unifying force, President Bio encouraged the private sector to strengthen partnerships with government in promoting youth development through athletics.
The Football for Schools Project, a collaboration between the Government of Sierra Leone and FIFA, aims to integrate football into schools, teaching young learners skills, discipline, and teamwork.
Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James-Teima, described the ceremony as “a historic moment that reflects the administration’s belief in the transformative power of athletics,” while SLFA President Babadi Kamara reaffirmed the association’s commitment to developing football nationwide.
Through this initiative, President Bio envisions a future where athletic excellence fosters national pride, empowers youth, and strengthens Sierra Leone’s sporting legacy.
