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The Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dr Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, has presented cash prizes to winners of the National Canon Competition, following the conclusion of the tournament held across several communities in Sierra Leone.
The National Secretary General of the Sierra Leone Canon Association, Donald Kalokoh, said preparations for the Independence Day competition began four months ago, including outreach visits to communities such as Bonthe.
He noted that 16 communities were initially shortlisted, but due to logistical constraints, the final event featured seven communities competing in four race categories.
At the end of the competition, Bonthe Community emerged as overall winner, while Black Johnson and Mama Beach placed second and third respectively, based on the final judges’ results.
Presenting the prizes, Dr Abdulai commended the Canon Association for independently organising the event and promoting grassroots participation in sport across the country.
“I commend the Canon Association for organising this competition without relying on government funding. Canon is now being practised in different communities across the country and is positively engaging young people,” he said.
He also called for inclusivity and fairness within the association, stressing that openness to diverse opinions would support the sport’s growth.
“Listening to everyone creates room for diverse opinions, and that is what will help the sport grow further,” he added.
Director of Participation at the NSA, Steven Keifala, said the Canon Association was formally registered shortly after Dr Abdulai assumed office. He described it as an initiative closely linked to the Executive Director’s leadership, adding that the Authority is proud of its progress.
“This is his direct initiative, and as an Authority, we feel fulfilled to see this progress,” he said.
The competition marks the first national championship organised by the Canon Association, which is now officially recognised as a national sporting event.
