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The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs on Thursday, May 8th, 2025, hosted the first inter-secondary school Traditional Games. This initiative aims to revive traditional games, promote cultural appreciation, and foster a sense of community among young learners across Sierra Leone.
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, emphasized that 2025 is designated as the “Year of Ecotourism,” with a thematic focus on “Connecting Culture, Communities, and Conservation.” She remarked that traditional games serve not only as pastimes but as cultural tools that have shaped generations.
Permanent Secretary Rev. Kwame Yankson addressed the students, underscoring the importance of the event in reconnecting young people with Sierra Leone’s cultural roots.
Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, Executive Director of the National Sports Authority, commended the Ministry for this initiative. He highlighted that traditional games are prioritized in the revised National Sports Policy and pledged the NSA’s commitment to integrating these games into the standard school sports program. “Today’s games are more than entertainment, they are a testament to our identity, history, and values,” Dr. Abdulai stated.
The event saw participation from students of thirteen secondary schools in Freetown, including:
- Rokel Secondary School
- Government Model Secondary School
- Sierra Leone Muslim Brotherhood Secondary School
- Prince of Wales Secondary School
- Services Secondary School, Juba
- St. Edward’s Secondary School
- Annie Walsh Memorial School
- Methodist Girls’ High School
- Freetown Secondary School for Girls
- Methodist Boys’ High School
- Bishop Johnson Memorial School
- St. Joseph’s Convent Secondary School
- Henry Fergusson Junior Secondary School
Each school fielded teams across various age groups, creating an atmosphere of friendly competition and camaraderie.
In his closing remarks, Director of Culture, Foday Jalloh, encouraged students to become cultural ambassadors by reintroducing these games in their respective schools. “These games can help steer young people away from negative influences and instill discipline, unity, and purpose,” he added.
A diverse array of traditional games was showcased, including Ludo, Gbondo, Taxi, Kick en Home, Kick en Seize, Snake and Leather, IQ Test, Andie, Kick Seed, Six Cup, Boatkidie, General, Accra, Balance Ball, Draft, Play Cook, Cards, Touch, Rounders, Kombor, Stopper Game, and Skipping Rope.
The event concluded with the distribution of school materials to participating pupils, a gesture aimed at supporting education and encouraging future participation in cultural activities.
