The newly elected President of the Sierra Leone Football Association, Babadi Kamara, accompanied his entire executive committee on a courtesy visit to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio at State House. The meeting heralded the dawn of a new era in Sierra Leone football; one defined by unity, transparency, growth, and total inclusivity.
Dressed in confidence and calm authority, President BBD addressed President Bio with the clarity and ambition that have become his hallmark. With 43 votes out of 57 in the recent SLFA elections held in Lungi on August 2, BBD not only claimed victory but did so with the highest level of legitimacy ever secured in the history of the Football Association.
“It is with great humility and pride that I inform Your Excellency that I now serve as the most popularly elected President of the SLFA. What makes this even more meaningful is the diverse and inclusive makeup of my executive committee. Every region in Sierra Leone is represented. This is a team built to reflect the voice and passion of our people.”
Babadi Kamara’s roadmap for Sierra Leone football is anchored on collaboration, integrity and bold reforms. From strengthening ties with the National Sports Authority and the Ministry of Sports to building bridges with the private sector, especially mining companies, the new SLFA President laid out a clear vision that places grassroots football at the centre of national development.
“We want to revive the Inter-Secondary School League and the Inter-District competitions. These platforms are the bedrock for nurturing future stars and giving young Sierra Leoneans something to believe in. Our administration will prioritize discipline, financial management and accountability. These are the pillars of our commitment to the people.”
The passion and structure laid out by President Babadi resonated strongly with President Bio, who for years had observed the turbulence within the SLFA with concern. For the first time in years, the Head of State expressed hope and a renewed desire to partner with the SLFA.
“You have a brand new SLFA executive. I have previously distanced myself from the SLFA because of internal wrangling and unnecessary power struggles. But today, I see a team I can work with.”
In a firm yet encouraging tone, the President pointed out the need for the nation to do better by its young talents.
“We have so much potential in this country, yet we have not taken our duties seriously. Talents must be nurtured. They need space, discipline, and structure. And above all, we must put the right people in the right places,” he stressed.
President Bio assured Babadi Kamara and his team of full government backing. While acknowledging the country’s economic constraints, he made a promise that the resources available would be mobilized to support national teams and help create the right environment for tournaments, both local and international.
“I am pleased that the new President is already reaching out to the private sector. This makes the burden on government lighter and allows for sustainable partnerships.”
In closing, the President underscored the powerful role of football in uniting the country and offering a lifeline for many young people.
“Football is more than just a game in Sierra Leone. It is a career path, a source of hope, and a powerful force for national unity. You have my full support,” he concluded.
