By: Alimatu Kargbo
On 4th March 2026, A new chapter in youth football development began following the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Orange Sierra Leone and the UBA Foundation at Wilberforce Drive in Freetown.
The agreement, witnessed by key stakeholders from government, corporate institutions and the football community, is aimed at strengthening grassroots football, enhancing competition, and promoting sustainable sports development nationwide.
President of the SLFA, Babadie Kamara, described the partnership as a game-changer, stressing that it represents more than a formal agreement.
“This is not just about signing documents. It is a bold step toward sustainable football growth and community transformation,” Kamara said. He emphasized that football remains a powerful tool for unity, discipline and national pride, adding that leadership in football is about dedication, sacrifice and long-term vision.
According to him, credible partnerships are essential in building a strong foundation for young athletes and preparing them for regional and continental competitions. He reaffirmed that good governance, transparency and inclusive participation of all clubs remain central to the SLFA’s reform agenda, noting that development cannot happen in isolation, but through collective effort and strategic alliances.
Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Aminata Kane, reaffirmed her company’s commitment to youth empowerment and national development through sports investment.
“Orange Sierra Leone is proud to stand with the football community. This partnership is more than a corporate obligation, it is a strategic investment in Sierra Leone’s young talents,” she stated.
Kane highlighted football as one of the strongest platforms for community engagement and social transformation, assuring that Orange remains determined to help create sustainable opportunities for young players across the country. She also commended the SLFA leadership for promoting collaboration and transparency within the football sector.
Delivering her remarks at the Orange Foundation program, Minister of Sports, Augusta James-Teima, called for bold leadership, clear policies and long-term reforms to reposition sports in Sierra Leone.
“This is the moment to make a promise, to take the right direction with the right information and the right people,” she said, describing the partnership as a “marriage for progress” that must be protected and nurtured.
The Minister stressed that sustainable sports development requires strong policy frameworks and collaboration between government, private institutions and communities. She assured stakeholders that her ministry is committed to strengthening governance, improving standards and ensuring accountability within the sector. She further revealed that steps are being taken to establish responsible committees to monitor quality standards in the sports industry.
The MoU is expected to boost grassroots competition, improve management structures and expand opportunities for clubs and young talents nationwide. Stakeholders at the ceremony described the agreement as a renewed era of cooperation between corporate institutions and football authorities one built on courage, trust and shared vision to move Sierra Leone football forward.
