By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
The National Olympic Committee (NOC), the Commonwealth Games Association (CGA), and the National Sports Authority (NSA) have intensified preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, aiming to ensure strong participation by Sierra Leonean athletes.
Speaking at a joint meeting at the NSA office on Tuesday, 26 January 2026, NOC President Prince Suallay emphasized the importance of collaboration. He reflected on the challenges the NOC and CGA faced in participating in three major international competitions the Islamic Solidarity Games in Saudi Arabia, the African School Games in Algeria, and the African Youth Games in Angola without government funding.
Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, Executive Director of the NSA, assured the NOC of continued technical support and stressed the need for joint resource mobilization. He noted that the NSA’s 2026 budget has been significantly reduced, but efforts are underway to explore fundraising options and secure additional government support.
“The sport sector is progressing well, and we are on the right trajectory,” Dr. Abdulai said. “To achieve more as a sector, we need stronger collaboration and partnership, and this is something the NSA is fully committed to.”
Sierra Leone is expected to be represented by 19 athletes across six sporting disciplines at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, reflecting the nation’s determination to compete on the international stage despite funding challenges.