Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James Teima, has publicly apologized to the Sierra Leone Cricket Association on behalf of the government for the longstanding neglect.

She admitted that from 2017 to date, they’ve received only one form of support-back in 2023. Her apology came during a celebratory ceremony at Bishop House in Freetown, where the triumphant Senior Women’s National Cricket Team presented their trophy after clinching victory at the Kalahari T20 Female Tournament in Botswana.

“I’m deeply sorry that from 2017 to now, you have only received one support from the government,” Minister Teima said. “But I want to assure you that this will change. Cricket is one of the associations I hold in high regard, and no matter how tight my schedule is, I will never be too busy for you.”

A former cricketer herself, Madam Teima expressed both pride and emotional connection to the sport. She hailed the team’s impressive achievement and vowed to push for better and more consistent support from the government. “We are working to change the landscape of sports in this country,” she added.

“It shouldn’t be just about football- other hardworking and high-performing associations like yours deserve our full backing.” The Minister also landed a Coach. Jolm, who left England to lead the team to their historic win, encouraged the players to remain focused as they prepare for their next challenge in Rwanda.

You are now the team others are watching. Don’t get complacent- raise your game and continue making us proud,” she urged.

Minister Teima concluded by pledging to brief President Julius Maada Bio on the team’s success, noting his well-known interest in cricket. “He will be very pleased with your victory, and I hope you keep bringing more laurels to Sierra Leone.”

The Botswana triumph marks a milestone for women’s cricket in Sierra Leone and signals a hopeful future for the sport under what promises to be renewed government attention and investment.