Sixteen referees, assessors, and instructors drawn from Sierra Leone’s North-East Region have successfully completed a two-day capacity-building training held in Makeni on 25th April 2026. The programme was designed to strengthen officiating standards and enhance understanding of the modern Laws of the Game.

The training forms part of a broader development agenda by the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) aimed at improving the quality of football officiating across the country. According to SLFA Referees Manager, Alhaji Sanusi Rashad, the initiative is being implemented under the leadership of the Babadi Kamara-led executive, which has prioritised referee development through nationwide training interventions.

Rashad explained that the course was intended to refresh participants’ knowledge while updating them on recent amendments and evolving interpretations of the Laws of the Game.

“At the end of this training, we expect to have competent local technical instructors in each region, which has been lacking in some areas,” he stated, noting that the programme is part of a sustained effort rather than a one-off activity.

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He further revealed that a monitoring and evaluation system has been introduced, requiring participants to submit monthly reports. This, he said, will help track progress, measure impact, and identify areas requiring additional support.

“As part of our development framework, those trained will submit monthly reports so we can assess the impact of this programme and address areas that need improvement,” Rashad added.

Stakeholders in the North-East Region have welcomed the initiative.

The Secretary General of the North-East Region Referees Association, Sim Fullah Sesay, described the training as timely and necessary, emphasizing its potential to improve discipline and match management.

He noted that strengthening the capacity of instructors and assessors would have a positive trickle-down effect on refereeing standards at all levels in the region.

“This training is long overdue and something we have been yearning for. As a regional executive, we will monitor the outcomes closely to ensure professionalism,” Sesay said.

Participants also expressed appreciation for the programme. One of the trainees, Zainab Zantanet Sesay, said the training provided valuable insight into updated Laws of the Game and improved her understanding of officiating standards.

“I have learnt new laws of the game, and I will take this seriously in advancing my career,” she said.

The initiative is expected to contribute to improved officiating quality in regional competitions and support the development of refereeing across Sierra Leone.