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The National Sports Authority (NSA) is facing financial constraints as it awaits the disbursement of nineteen million new leones (NLe19M) from the Ministry of Finance, according to Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai.
Dr. Abdulai revealed that the Ministry of Finance had previously released four million seven hundred thousand new leones (NLe4.7M) out of a total of twenty-three million new leones owed to airlines. This sum was used to settle partial airline debts and pay Leone Stars coaches, among other outstanding obligations.
Speaking about the Leone Stars’ preparation for upcoming international tournaments, Dr. Abdulai disclosed that the NSA has budgeted eight hundred and fifty thousand United States dollars (US$850,000). To meet this financial target, the NSA has launched a significant fundraising drive, sending letters to various corporate entities including commercial banks, mining companies, mobile network operators, and other businesses.
Dr. Abdulai emphasized the government’s role as the primary funder of sports in Sierra Leone. He highlighted the substantial financial needs of the Leone Stars, stating that last year, three million United States dollars (US$3M) were required to enable the team to participate in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) calendar within three months. Due to the condition of the National Stadium, both home and away matches are currently played abroad, significantly increasing costs.
He expressed hope that the Ministry of Finance will release the remaining funds to clear the NSA’s arrears. Dr. Abdulai stressed that this is not the first time the NSA has sought financial support from corporate bodies for the Leone Stars.
He concluded by appealing to Sierra Leoneans and institutions to support the national team in their upcoming World Cup and CAF competitions.
