A high powered government delegation, led by the Minister of Sports Madam Augusta James-Teima and the Executive Director of National Sports Authority Dr. Kenneth Brima, visited the Sierra Leone Football Academy ground to oversee the progress of the FIFA Artificial Turf Projects nationwide on Thursday, January 24.

Accompanying the delegation were senior officials from both the Ministry of Sports and the National Sports Authority, including Deputy Executive Director Dr. Abdulrahaman Swaray, Director of Participation Steven Keifala, Director of Cooperation Alie Sesay, Director of the National Institute of Sport Victor Hasten Spain, and Director of Sports Haroun Korji.

Acting General Secretary of the Sierra Leone Football Association Mohamed Benson Bawoh updated the government entourage, stating that the SLFA is nearing completion of constructing four standard artificial turf pitches at the SLFA Academy and Approved School in Freetown, Port Loko Town Field, and the Coronation Field in Bo. He specified a target deadline of March-end this year for the completion of work, highlighting that the Koidu Field and Kenema City Field would also undergo renovation and receive floodlight installations.

Bawoh revealed additional details, mentioning that upon completion, all pitches would feature a perimeter fence, installed floodlights, a 100-seater pavilion, and a 100 KVA generator at each playing venue.

Minister of Sports Madam James-Teima expressed great excitement over the swift progress in the country’s football infrastructure, specifically acknowledging the ongoing FIFA Artificial Turf Pitch construction across Sierra Leone. She reassured the Football Association of the government’s unwavering support in realizing all football developmental activities within and beyond Sierra Leone.

The visit underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure, fostering a conducive environment for football development. The completion of these artificial turf projects, equipped with modern facilities, is poised to elevate the standards of football in Sierra Leone and provide a platform for nurturing young talent.

As the Minister of Sports emphasized the government’s support, it signals a collaborative effort to propel football in the country to new heights. With the set deadline for completion approaching, the football community anticipates the positive impact these upgraded facilities will have on the overall football landscape in Sierra Leone.