Sierra Leone’s minister of sports, Madam Augusta James-Teima has pledged total support for the national sports development fund in the country.

She made this revelation at the event, organized by the National Sports Authority (NSA) which hosted key stakeholders from various National Sports Associations across the country.

The Minister commended Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, Executive Director of NSA, for his innovative leadership and dedication to advancing sports in the country and emphasized the fundamental partnership between the Ministry of Sports and NSA, stressing that their collaboration is key for fostering the growth and professionalism of sports in Sierra Leone.

She emphasized the values of seriousness, good leadership, and transparency which are essential for the total development of sport in the country.

She pointed out President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s steadfast commitment to allocating resources to sports over the past six years, noting visible improvements in infrastructure and athlete support.

Appreciating the role of sporting associations, Madam Minister extended a supportive hand, promising guidance and capacity-building initiatives based on merit. “We are dedicated to supporting associations that uphold standards of excellence,” she noted.

The Minister emphasized the critical role of coaches in nurturing athletes and enhancing human capital development. “I want to thank the coaches who are capacitating these athletes. I recognize their contributions to national sports development.”

She disclosed an ongoing efforts towards the sports development fund, as well as commended the sporting associations that have invested in infrastructure independently, noting their contribution to expanding sports opportunities nationwide.