As part of preparations for Sierra Leone’s hosting of the first-ever International 16-Nations U-15 Academy Tournament scheduled for April 2026, the Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James-Teima, on Monday led a high-level delegation to the southern and eastern regions to inspect stadium and hotel facilities.
The inspection tour covered key sporting and hospitality facilities in Kenema and Bo, aimed at ensuring they meet international standards ahead of the tournament.
On arrival at the Kenema Town Field Stadium, the Minister and her delegation were received by the Secretary General of the Kenema District Football Association, Umaru Sallu Sawaneh. The Director of Sports, Haroun Mustapha Korgi, briefed local officials on the purpose of the visit, after which Mr. Sawaneh provided updates on ongoing improvements within the complex.
The inspection covered dressing rooms, conference halls, toilets, the pitch, and the lighting and water systems. The team also visited several hotels in Kenema, including the Albertson Hotel, Paloma Hotel, and Dorwail Hotel, to assess facilities and review accommodation rates for participating teams and officials.
The delegation later proceeded to the Bo Mini Stadium, where they were warmly welcomed by the Stadium Manager, Mohamed Vangahun, and his technical staff. Similar inspections were carried out on the stadium’s infrastructure and utilities.
In Bo, the Minister and team also visited the Galliness Paradise Hotel for a facility check, while the Southern Arena Stadium, already certified to international standards, was acknowledged as fully compliant and therefore did not require a detailed inspection.
At the end of the visit, the inspection team tentatively agreed to select the Bo Mini Stadium, Southern Arena, and Galliness Paradise Hotel as key venues for the 2026 Africa Youth Cup Tournament.
The findings from the tour will be presented at the next meeting of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for confirmation and final approval.
The delegation included the Permanent Secretary Mr. Jusu, Director of Sports Mr. Haroun Mustapha Korgi, Deputy Secretary Madam Naba Osaio Khanu, Senior Development Officer Mr. Momodu Alpha, District Sports Officer (NSA) Madam Isatu Sheriff, and members of the Ministry of Sports Media Team.
From Super Duper Alex Lansana Claye (ALC) (Di General) Di Pa E Yai on Sports (MoS Media Team)
