By: Abu H. Kargbo
Stakeholders in Makeni, including the Sierra Leone Police, the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society and athletics authorities, have pledged to strengthen safety and security for runners participating in this year’s Street Child Sierra Leone Marathon.
The commitment was made during the first marathon stakeholders’ meeting held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at the Street Child Thaimu Bangura Street Compound in Makeni.
Race Director Alusine Kanu said the meeting was aimed at intensifying preparations and addressing safety, security and logistical needs ahead of the marathon.
He emphasized that the safety and security of participants are critical to the success of the event, particularly with the participation of international runners who support Street Child Sierra Leone’s projects.
“Before race day, we usually bring the international runners to see our work, and often they will later donate to support our projects,” Kanu explained.
He said the presence of international runners also contributes to the hospitality and tourism sectors, noting that some participants have booked accommodation at Wusum Hotel and Hotel Conteh-U.
Kanu further announced plans to increase logistical support for sports marshals on race day to address safety concerns and prevent incidents of race cheating reported during last year’s edition.
He also confirmed that Orange Sierra Leone will sponsor the event by providing vehicles to support operations during the race.
Representatives of the Sierra Leone Police and RSLAF acknowledged the safety concerns experienced during the previous edition and pledged to strengthen security along the race route, particularly on race day.
Branch Manager of the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society, Mohamed C. Sesay, also pledged the organization’s support, emphasizing its commitment to humanitarian service.
President of the Northern Region Athletics Association, Alhassan Kamara, said the association would work to improve the skills of sports marshals and strengthen coordination among stakeholders on race day.
“This event has greatly contributed to the development of our long-distance runners,” he said.
The stakeholders’ commitments form part of preparations for this year’s Street Child Sierra Leone Marathon, which is scheduled to take place later this month.