Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) President Babadi Kamara on Friday, May 22, commissioned the construction of a 435-seater pavilion at the SLFA Academy Field in Kingtom, a privately funded project valued at over US$250,000 that underscores his commitment to football infrastructure development.
The sod-turning ceremony, attended by senior government and sports officials, marks a significant step in modernizing facilities for supporters. The pavilion is designed to provide dignity, safety, and improved comfort for fans attending matches at the Academy Field.
Among those present were Minister of Sport Madam Augusta James Teima, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Sports Hon. Rachel Pessima, National Sports Authority Executive Director Mohamed Alphaka Conteh Esq., SLFA Vice President 1 Alie Badara Tarawallie, and members of the Executive Committee.
Conteh commended Kamara’s leadership, noting that the new structure would give the Academy Field a modern edifice and elevate its status as a key sporting venue. Minister Teima praised the transformation taking place under Kamara’s tenure, urging other sporting disciplines to emulate football’s infrastructure drive.
Outlining progress since assuming office, President Kamara revealed that the pavilion is one of several projects underway. He announced that the SLFA has secured a new headquarters, scheduled for official opening in October, and highlighted FIFA’s approval for the construction of two new pitches at Albert Academy School and The Bo School under the FIFA Arena Project. More schools are expected to benefit from similar facilities.
“These developments will bring dignity and respect to the SLFA among our regional member associations,” Kamara said, emphasizing that the initiatives reflect a broader vision to expand access to quality playing surfaces and strengthen Sierra Leone’s football infrastructure.