The Ministry of Sports engaged in a pivotal meeting with a high-level delegation from China, led by Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Wang Qing, to discuss the ongoing rehabilitation of the National Stadium, a cherished symbol of Sierra Leonean pride for over four decades.
The meeting, held on November 28, 2024, at the Siaka Stevens Stadium Hostel, highlighted the stadium's enduring significance as a symbol of the strong bilateral ties between Sierra Leone and China. Ambassador Wang Qing lauded the collaboration, stating, “This stadium has been an enduring symbol of our friendship. Through this rehabilitation project, we aim to ensure its legacy endures for another 30 years, serving future generations.”
Commitment to Excellence and Safety
Ambassador Wang praised the progress made by Gansu Construction Company and welcomed the Ministry’s request for expanded seating capacity, stressing the importance of addressing all technical and safety aspects of the project. He emphasised that the initiative aligns with agreements reached during President Julius Maada Bio’s visit to China, strengthening cooperation between the two nations.
Safety emerged as a key focus of the discussions, with Ambassador Wang expressing optimism for the project's seamless execution. He thanked the stakeholders for their dedication to preserving a national treasure.
A Milestone for Sierra Leone’s Sporting Development
Minister of Sports Madam Augusta James-Teima commended the Chinese government’s steadfast support and described the meeting as a “watershed moment” in Sierra Leone's sporting history.
“We deeply appreciate China's unwavering commitment to this project and its willingness to accommodate our requests,” she stated. She further underscored the stadium's historical significance, highlighting the importance of fostering partnerships that yield mutual benefits.
Dr Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), stressed expanding seating to meet international standards. “Without adequate seating, we cannot host competitive international matches,” he remarked, pointing to a fully operational stadium's economic and morale-boosting benefits.
Dr Abdulai also emphasised the role of home crowd support in boosting team performance, recalling the challenges faced by Sierra Leonean teams during international competitions.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties Through Sports
As discussions concluded, all participants expressed optimism about the project’s impact on Sierra Leone's sports landscape. The collaboration aims to restore the National Stadium to its former glory and strengthens the diplomatic relationship between Sierra Leone and China.
The project is poised to preserve a vital national landmark while creating a space for future sporting triumphs and fostering national pride for years to come.
By Alusine Bangura
SLENA Correspondent
Email: 77384083ab@gmail.com
Tel: +232 77384083
Comments