Govt. Delegation Inspires Team Sierra Leone
The Sierra Leone delegation participating in the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games has received a high-level government visit led by the Minister of Sport, Hon. Augusta James-Teima, in a demonstration of the Government’s support and encouragement for the country’s young athletes competing at the historic Games.
The government delegation included Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Senegal, His Excellency Ambassador Ibrahim Turay; Minister of Sport, Hon. Augusta James-Teima; Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Mohamed Alphaka Conteh; Director of Sport in the Ministry of Sport, Haroun Korji; and Chairman of the NSA, Ibrahim Nylenkeh.
Welcoming the government representatives, NOC/CGA-SLE President, Prince Vandy Sualley, expressed appreciation for the visit, particularly acknowledging the presence and support of Ambassador Turay. He described the Ambassador’s engagement with the delegation as a welcome novelty in the history of Sierra Leonean delegations participating in international multi-sport events.
President Sualley also acknowledged the Government’s support through the Ministry of Sport and the National Sports Authority, commending the beach volleyball team for its performances and competitive spirit. He emphasised that the team’s growing competitiveness was raising the bar and setting an example for other sporting disciplines to emulate.
Speaking on behalf of the National Sports Authority, Executive Director Mohamed Alphaka Conteh reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting sporting disciplines in their respective activities and participation in international multi-sport competitions. He highlighted Government’s facilitation of delegation allowances and contingency arrangements to support the team’s participation and welfare throughout the Games.
Ambassador Ibrahim Turay expressed delight at being with the athletes and officials, commending the delegation for its excellent representation of Sierra Leone, affectionately referred to as Mama Salone, at the historic Youth Olympic Games. He particularly singled out the beach volleyball team for its impressive and competitive performances, while also recognising and appreciating the efforts of athletes across other sporting disciplines, including Judo, Swimming and Athletics. The Ambassador extended his encouragement to all members of Team Sierra Leone and assured the delegation of the Embassy’s commitment to facilitating a smooth stay and providing the necessary diplomatic support to ensure a soft landing for everyone.
In her remarks, the Minister of Sport, Madam Augusta James-Teima, commended Ambassador Turay and the staff of the Sierra Leone Mission in Dakar for their hospitality, engagement and support towards the delegation.
The visit underscores the importance of collaboration between the Government, the National Sports Authority, the National Olympic Committee and Sierra Leone’s diplomatic missions in supporting athletes and strengthening the country’s presence at international sporting events.
As the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games continue, the visit serves as an important morale boost for Team Sierra Leone, reinforcing the collective commitment to athlete welfare, competitive excellence and the continued development of sport in the country.
