Launch of Youth Athlete Development Programme in Sierra Leone

Strategic Insights -

The Sierra Leone Athletics Association (SLAA) and the National Olympic Committee of Sierra Leone (NOC-SLE) have launched the Youth Athlete Development Programme, funded by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), with the aim of training 60 young athletes aged 12 to 18 from across Sierra Leone for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. The programme, which was unveiled at the Port Loko Mini Stadium, seeks to decentralize athletics development and create opportunities for young athletes nationwide. The initiative marks a significant step towards nurturing future champions from every region of Sierra Leone.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Youth Athlete Development Programme aims to train 60 young athletes aged 12 to 18 from across Sierra Leone for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
  • The programme is funded by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and is a collaborative effort between the Sierra Leone Athletics Association (SLAA) and the National Olympic Committee of Sierra Leone (NOC-SLE).
  • The initiative seeks to decentralize athletics development and create opportunities for young athletes nationwide.
  • SLAA President Martin Momoh Bangura described the programme as a major step toward nurturing future champions from every region of Sierra Leone.
  • Bai Bangura Bai, Project Manager at NOC-SLE, reaffirmed the Committee's commitment to supporting the initiative and ensuring Sierra Leone fields a competitive youth athletics team on the international stage.
  • The launch of the programme marked the beginning of a new chapter in athletics development in Sierra Leone, with a focus on empowering young athletes through structured development and proper training.
  • The programme aims to build a strong foundation for future Olympic success.
  • The launch attracted athletes, coaches, regional sports officials, and community leaders, who welcomed the renewed focus on youth development and the expansion of athletics programmes across the country.

Statistics:

  • 60 young athletes will be trained as part of the Youth Athlete Development Programme.
  • The athletes will be aged between 12 and 18.
  • The programme is funded by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
  • The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will feature young athletes from Sierra Leone.

Sources:

  • Sierra Leone News Agency, 29 October 2025
  • International Olympic Committee (IOC) (no specific source mentioned)
  • Sierra Leone Athletics Association (SLAA) (no specific source mentioned)
  • National Olympic Committee of Sierra Leone (NOC-SLE) (no specific source mentioned)