Hon. Aruna Papay Solomon Larkoh, a member of Sierra Leone’s sixth Parliament from Tonkolili District, Northern Sierra Leone, had on the 1st of February 2025, officially launched a football tournament at Makump Section, Kholifa Rowalla Chiefdom, a chiefdom in the north of Sierra Leone.
Named after the lawmaker, who also doubles as the tournament’s chief organiser and sponsor, Honourable Papay Larkoh Trophy, was done as a celebration of football competition honouring the MP’s dedication of live to the community development and youth empowerment.
The kick-off event was vibrant, filled with cultural displays and inspiring speeches made by community stakeholders and members.
The tournament also brought together teams from various communities to compete in exciting matches, showcasing local talent and promoting oneness.
The event was more than just a football tournament — it’s also a platform for young athletes in neighbouring communities to shine and a testament to one of Honourable Larkoh’s legacies of promoting sports.
The competition aimed at instilling passion for sports, teamwork, and a celebration of excellence, among indigenes.
The tournament brought together young athletes and football clubs around Tonkolili District to compete in exciting matches, thus showcasing their local talents while fostering unity.
The competition was full of passion, teamwork, and a celebration of excellence and unity among constituents.
Hon. Aruna Papay Larkoh had given Tonkolili District, especially around Constituency 050 and Khalifa Rowalla Chiefdom, a new political picture where residents, especially the youths, were previously considered only during the electioneering process and or during campaign periods.
This latest move by the Honourable Member of Parliament is great, and the very man, is now considered at the chiefdom, as a development icon who has not only prioritised development but also ensured that his people are put at the centre of human development activities.
His continued engagements and support to residents of Tonkolili District are a testament to the passion and love he has for the APC and his community.
“The more we come closer to the people, the faster their wounds and griefs will heal,” the MP stated during the launching of the tournament in Mabum.
Hon. Larkoh said the tournament is also a call for peace, unity, and tranquillity in his constituency and beyond.
He called on the participating teams and their supporters to show sportsmanship and embrace peace throughout the process.
Hon. Larkoh pledged his continued support to sport, especially football, which, he says, is one of the platforms bringing youth and community members together.