By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the National Olympic Committee and Commonwealth Games Association of Sierra Leone (NOC/CGA-SLE) is currently underway at the OlympAfrica Centre in Goderich, Freetown, bringing together key stakeholders from across the country’s sporting landscape.
Held under the theme “United for Progress – Building Capacity, Inspiring Excellence,” the AGM has attracted delegates from Member National Sports Associations, government representatives, sports administrators, development partners and other stakeholders committed to advancing sports development in Sierra Leone.
The meeting, chaired by NOC/CGA-SLE Secretary General Ahmed Khanou, is being conducted in accordance with the organization’s constitution. It provides a platform for members to review the committee’s activities and achievements over the past year, assess ongoing programmes and discuss strategic priorities aimed at strengthening the country’s sports sector.
Addressing delegates, NOC/CGA-SLE President Prince Vandy Sualley highlighted the importance of unity, good governance and capacity building in driving the growth of sports in Sierra Leone. Statements were also delivered by the Deputy Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dr. Abdul Rahman Swarray; Director of Sports, Haroun Korjie; and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Sports, among other dignitaries.
A major highlight of the AGM was a special Strategic Development Session moderated by Ahmed Khanou. The panel featured Prince Vandy Sualley, Immediate Past NOC/CGA-SLE President Dr. Patrick Coker, Dr. Abdul Rahman Swarray, Volleyball Federation Sierra Leone Technical Director Sorie Kamara and Director of Sports Haroun Korjie. The discussion focused on sustainable sports development, institutional capacity building, athlete welfare and the future direction of Sierra Leone sports.
The AGM also took time to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to sports development in Sierra Leone. Former tennis player Achie Tylor Lewis, former international athletics star Eunice Barber and the late Winston D.C. Crowther, former President of the National Cycling and Triathlon Association, were honoured with Lifetime Achievement Awards in recognition of their outstanding service and lasting impact on the nation’s sporting history.
Deliberations continue as delegates engage in discussions aimed at strengthening sports governance, enhancing athlete development and positioning Sierra Leone for greater success on the regional and international stage.