By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
The National Sports Authority (NSA), led by Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, has announced an ambitious plan to transform over ten dusty pitches across Sierra Leone into artificial turf fields with tracks. This initiative aims to enhance athletic performance and provide world-class facilities for athletes.
Dr. Abdulai highlighted the crucial role sports play in the nation’s economy, noting that it can generate significant employment opportunities, potentially benefiting over 10,000 Sierra Leoneans. He acknowledged the longstanding challenges posed by inadequate infrastructure but commended the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) for successfully developing four artificial turf pitches, which have already shown positive results in improving players’ performance.
“This initiative is not just about football; it will extend to other sporting associations that face similar infrastructure challenges. With this project, we are confident that we can elevate sports in Sierra Leone to a higher level,” Dr. Abdulai stated.
The NSA has partnered with a non-governmental organization (NGO) to help facilitate the installation of these artificial turfs. Dr. Abdulai emphasized the need to reduce the reliance on government funding for sports associations representing Sierra Leone internationally. He also urged corporate entities to invest in the development of sports, noting that improved infrastructure will help attract private sector investment.
“If we truly want to see sports grow in Sierra Leone, we must all contribute to building a solid foundation,” he added.
This initiative represents a major step toward enhancing sports infrastructure in Sierra Leone, fostering greater participation and boosting performance in a wide range of sporting disciplines.