By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
The Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James-Teima, has praised the Sierra Leone Basketball Association for its ongoing commitment to empowering young people through structured training and development programs.
Speaking at a special engagement with participants of the National Youth Basketball Training Camp, Minister James-Teima extended warm recognition to the international facilitator, noting that their presence underscores a strong global commitment to advancing basketball in Sierra Leone.
Representing the Government of Sierra Leone, the Minister commended the association for its proactive efforts in building the capacity of young athletes, emphasizing that such initiatives play a vital role in shaping responsible and productive citizens.
She highlighted that human capital development remains a top government priority and that programs like the training camp are essential in fostering the growth and potential of young people. While the benefits may not be immediately visible, she stressed that the training is intentional, meaningful, and aligned with the association’s objectives.
Madam James-Teima also underscored the importance of youth engagement in sports, noting that it helps divert young people from negative influences such as drug abuse, which continues to affect communities across the country. She encouraged participants to view themselves as ambassadors of Sierra Leone, always representing the nation positively.
The Minister further encouraged the athletes to remain focused and disciplined, reminding them that basketball offers opportunities to rise from local communities to national and even international platforms. “You matter greatly,” she told the youths, urging them to embrace the opportunity, learn diligently, and recognize their value in society.
She expressed gratitude to the Sierra Leone Basketball Association, international partners, technical teams, coaches, and officials for their unwavering support and commended the association’s leadership as a model for other sports bodies to emulate.
The event concluded with a message of hope, inspiration, and encouragement for the young athletes.
