By: Audrey Raymonda John
For countless young people whose dreams are often overlooked, hope took centre stage as the Ministry of Youth Affairs (MOYA) formalized a transformative partnership with Special Olympics Sierra Leone (SOSL) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement reaffirms the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment to empowering young people with intellectual disabilities through sports, skills development, and social inclusion.
The partnership establishes a clear framework for collaboration focused on expanding Special Olympics programmes nationwide, promoting acceptance, and creating safe, enabling spaces where every young person regardless of ability can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
Under the agreement, the Ministry of Youth Affairs will provide policy guidance, advocacy, and access to government platforms and resources, while Special Olympics Sierra Leone will lead the planning, organization, and implementation of inclusive sports programmes, training sessions, and competitions in line with international best practices.
Speaking on the significance of the partnership, the Minister of Youth Affairs, Mr. Ibrahim Sannoh, described the MoU as more than a formal document, calling it a promise of dignity, opportunity, and hope.
“This partnership reflects the kind of Sierra Leone we are intentionally building one where no young person is left behind. Inclusion is not charity; it is justice. Through this MoU with Special Olympics Sierra Leone, we are reaffirming our commitment to empowering youth with intellectual disabilities, celebrating their talents, and ensuring they have equal access to opportunities that unlock their full potential,” Minister Sannoh said.
He further emphasized that sports remain a powerful tool for social cohesion, confidence-building, and national unity, adding that the Ministry will continue to champion initiatives that place young people at the centre of national development.
The collaboration also prioritizes capacity building for coaches, volunteers, and athletes, alongside robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure measurable impact and long-term sustainability.
The MoU marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey toward a more inclusive youth development ecosystem one that recognizes ability beyond limitation and finds strength in diversity. As implementation begins, the partnership is expected to inspire communities, change perceptions, and create new pathways for young people with intellectual disabilities to shine, compete, and belong.