The Minister of Sports, Augusta James-Teima, has reaffirmed the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment to football development, commending Leone Rock Metals Group for sponsoring the Leone Rock Premier League for the fourth consecutive season.
She made the statement on October 8, 2026, at the Bintumani Hotel conference hall in Aberdeen, Freetown, during the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for the 2026/2027 Leone Rock Premier League.
The ceremony brought together government officials, representatives of the National Sports Authority (NSA), the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Leone Rock Metals Group, the Premier League Board and members of the media.
Speaking on behalf of the government, the minister conveyed greetings from President Julius Maada Bio and praised Leone Rock Metals Group for its continued investment in football in Sierra Leone.
She described football as the country’s most popular sport and a powerful tool for promoting national unity, youth empowerment, job creation and human capital development.
Madam James-Teima also commended the improved collaboration among the NSA, SLFA and other government institutions, stressing that cooperation among stakeholders was essential to the growth and sustainability of sports in the country.
She noted that the Premier League provides economic opportunities for footballers, transport operators, business owners and other citizens. According to her, sports also offer young people constructive activities that can help address social challenges, including Kush abuse.
Addressing the issue of violence in sports, the minister disclosed that the government was working with the Peace Commission and other stakeholders to introduce stricter measures to prevent violence and promote peace.
She urged the media to play an active role in educating the public about sportsmanship, unity and respect for sporting regulations.
The minister further emphasized the importance of supporting junior national teams alongside the senior national team, noting that sports development requires substantial financial resources and increased private-sector investment.
She therefore encouraged more companies to partner with the government in advancing sports development, while expressing appreciation to Leone Rock Metals Group for its continued support for the country’s premier football competition.
Madam James-Teima concluded by assuring the public of the government’s continued commitment to football development, describing the sport as one deeply loved by President Bio and young people across Sierra Leone.