There is a growing nationwide call for unity and massive support for the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) President, Babadi Kamara, as he intensifies efforts to transform football in Sierra Leone and lead the national team, Leone Stars, to qualification for the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Described by football stakeholders as a hard-working and dynamic leader, President Babadi Kamara has been hailed as a man divinely positioned to change the status of football in Mama Salone. Supporters believe his vision, commitment, and hands-on leadership mark a new chapter for football development at both national and international levels.
As Leone Stars prepare for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, President Babadi has stepped in to take full control of preparations for the national team, a move that has been widely welcomed by football lovers across the country. Calls are now being made for all sectors of society to rally behind this national cause, including the Government of Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Sports (MoS), Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), the National Sports Authority (NSA), the National Olympic Committee (NOC), mining companies, commercial houses, and parastatals.
Football, widely regarded as the largest sporting constituency in any country, remains the most loved game among the youth. Advocates are therefore urging Sierra Leoneans to turn out in large numbers during Leone Stars’ training sessions and home matches, serving as the “12th player” through unwavering support to help the team secure qualification for AFCON.
Leone Stars, the pride of the nation, is also recognized as a flagship project under the leadership of H.E. President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, whose administration continues to emphasize the unifying power of sports. History has shown that football can unite nations and promote peace, as evidenced during the Ivorian crisis where football played a key role in restoring relative peace—an example of the game’s immense social power.
Stakeholders stress that when Leone Stars win, the entire nation jubilates, and when the team qualifies for AFCON, Sierra Leone’s image is uplifted globally, improving its FIFA rankings and national pride.
With this in mind, Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad are being encouraged to throw their massive support behind Leone Stars and SLFA President Babadi Kamara to ensure qualification for the AFCON tournament.
“Together we can build the game of football. Many hands make the work easier,” supporters say, as they rally behind the SLFA leadership with renewed hope and unity.
May God Almighty bless all Sierra Leoneans for their generosity and continued support towards Leone Stars and SLFA President Babadi Kamara.
