Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, (PhD), Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), has requested $3 million to support Leone Stars’ six Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier matches over the next three months. Abdulai made the appeal during a budget hearing at the Ministry of Finance on Friday, August 30, 2024.
The Leone Stars will face a demanding schedule, starting with a match against Chad on September 6, 2024, in Monrovia. They will then travel to Zambia for a game on September 10, followed by a clash with Ivory Coast on October 7. The team will host Ivory Coast again on October 15 in Monrovia before travelling to Chad on November 11. Their final group stage match will be held at home against Zambia on November 19.
Abdulai emphasized the critical role of sports in Sierra Leone, noting, “Sport is the biggest employer in Sierra Leone today. We reach out to boys and girls in underserved communities, offering them opportunities for growth and development. This not only helps reduce crime but also creates job opportunities for the youth, who make up 62 per cent of our population.”
The funding is crucial for covering the costs associated with these international fixtures and ensuring the Leone Stars can compete effectively in their quest for AFCON qualification. BT/3/9/2024
