The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has launched the country's first-ever Women's Football Strategy, marking a significant milestone in the development of women's football in Sierra Leone. The strategy, launched on October 28, 2026, by SLFA President Babadi Kamara, provides a comprehensive framework for advancing women's football across the country, from grassroots participation to the international stage. The launch event, held at the Freetown City Council Hall, brought together football administrators, National Sports Authority officials, and FIFA representatives.
The new strategy aligns with the SLFA's mission to develop and promote football while strengthening structures and expanding opportunities for women and girls. According to Kamara, the introduction of the strategy represents a commitment to the future of women's football in Sierra Leone. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to play football, develop her talent, and aspire to reach the highest level of the game.
The launch was attended by several high-profile officials, including SLFA Second Vice President Prince Saquee, National Sports Authority Executive Director Mohamed Alphaka Conteh Esq., and SLFA General Secretary Ing. Mohamed Benson Bawoh. Women's Football Manager Elizabeth Kailey and FIFA representatives Thubaelihle Bridgette Sibanda from Zimbabwe and Tsholofelo Candy Setlhoko from Botswana were also present at the event.
Following the launch, the SLFA, with support from FIFA, commenced a three-day capacity-building workshop for women's football administrators, scheduled for October 28-30, 2026. The workshop aims to strengthen administrators' skills and knowledge to support the effective implementation of the strategy and establish a stronger, more inclusive, and sustainable future for women's football in Sierra Leone.
The introduction of the strategy marks a new chapter in the SLFA's efforts to develop women's football. Its long-term significance will depend on how effectively the framework is implemented and the extent to which it creates meaningful opportunities for female players and strengthens the structures supporting the game across the country.
The SLFA's efforts to develop women's football have been ongoing, with the association working to provide opportunities for women and girls to participate in the sport. The launch of the strategy is a significant step towards achieving this goal and is expected to have a positive impact on the development of women's football in Sierra Leone.
The implementation of the strategy will require collective efforts from the SLFA, football administrators, and stakeholders to advance the women's game. With the support of FIFA and other partners, the SLFA is confident that the strategy will help to create a brighter future for women's football in Sierra Leone.
Key points
- The Sierra Leone Football Association has launched its first Women's Football Strategy to develop women's football across the country.
- The strategy provides a comprehensive framework for advancing women's football, from grassroots participation to the international stage.
- A three-day capacity-building workshop has been organized to support the effective implementation of the strategy.
