By Ibrahim S. Bangura s
The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has signed agreements with Albert Academy and Bo School for the implementation of the FIFA Arena Project at the two institutions as part of efforts to enhance football infrastructure and promote grassroots football development across the country.
The signing ceremony took place at the SLFA Secretariat in Kingtom, Freetown, bringing together representatives of the beneficiary schools, the football governing body and other stakeholders.
Speaking at the event, SLFA President Babadi Kamara described the initiative as a pilot phase of a broader programme aimed at expanding access to modern football facilities in schools nationwide.
He explained that the FIFA Arena Project operates under a counterpart funding arrangement, with FIFA providing the necessary materials and technical expertise while Sierra Leone is responsible for constructing the sub-base required for the facilities.
According to Kamara, the signing of the agreement with the beneficiary schools was a key requirement for the release of project materials and the commencement of implementation.
He further expressed optimism that other schools across the country would benefit from similar projects in the future as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen youth football development.
Representing Albert Academy, Alumni President Zainab Attire Bangura thanked the SLFA and FIFA for selecting the school to benefit from the project, describing the initiative as a significant boost to the development of young football talents.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Rev. Hassan Kainesie, representing Bo School, welcomed the project and commended the SLFA and FIFA for what he described as a step in the right direction toward improving sporting opportunities for students.
The FIFA Arena Project is expected to provide improved playing facilities for students and serve as a platform for nurturing future football talents in Sierra Leone.