By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
The Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James Teima, recently paid a special visit to the Government Rehabilitation Center for the Amputee National Football Team located on Aberdeen Road in Freetown. The visit was aimed at showing support and recognition for the athletes who have overcome significant challenges to pursue their passion for football.
During her visit, Minister James Teima emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “We always emphasize the issue of inclusivity in governance, and even in your small corners, everyone is important. There is always ability in disability. I am so grateful on behalf of the government to see that you are doing well in this regard.”
The Minister of Sports also reflected on the importance of supporting people with disabilities, sharing her personal perspective: “Today I am fine, but tomorrow I might be a disabled person, and that’s why we should come together to support those facing these challenges and ensure they live a life better than even some of us. You really have talents because I have witnessed some of your displays.”
Her statement echoed the government’s vision of Radical Inclusion, an initiative that ensures everyone, regardless of their circumstances, is recognized as important to the country’s growth and development. “You all belong to the nation,” Minister James-Teima added, highlighting the importance of making people with disabilities feel included and supported.
Madam Minister acknowledged the significant challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, noting, “It is not easy when you lose your ability. But it’s crucial to make you all feel you belong, as it will help you find the courage to live just like the able-bodied.” She promised to use her office to further support the activities of the Amputee National Football Team and ensure they have the resources they need.
Minister of Sports Madam Augusta James-Teima also expressed confidence in the team’s future success, saying, “Next time you go for a soccer competition, you won’t only bring the best-behaved team award but also a trophy to show us that your ability has improved.”
The visit was marked by several speeches from representatives of the Amputee National Football Team and their partners. The team was welcomed by Albert Manley Mustapha, the Public Relations Officer of the team, along with key figures such as Aruna Thullah, the President of the team, and Mambu K. Samai, the Program Coordinator.
Also present were representatives from Swiss Ability, including Dr. Roberto from Switzerland, Dr. Julian from Italy, and a doctor from Uganda. They were joined by Dolores Samai, a Sierra Leonean student, as well as 22 members and beneficiaries of the Sierra Leone Amputee Sports Association (SLASA) from various regions, including Kono, Bo, Kenema, Makeni, Kailahun, and Freetown. These members recently benefited from the provision of mono-limbs, marking a historic moment for Sierra Leone.
In her closing remarks, Madam Minister expressed her hope for continued collaboration to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. “We pray that we all work together and make life better for these people.”
The visit serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and the potential for athletes with disabilities to achieve greatness, despite the challenges they face.