By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)

Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) executive alongside Ministry of Sports and National Sports Authority (NSA) representatives have recently examined the ongoing construction of the artificial turf pitch at the Approved School Playing Grounds in east of Freetown.

This visit highlights SLFA’s commitment to ensuring the pitch meets FIFA standards similar to the ones being built at the SLFA Academy, Port Loko Town Field, and Bo Coronation field in the south.

President Brima emphasized that these facilities are a gift to the people of Sierra Leone. While acknowledging the ongoing construction, he called on the government for additional support.

He requested the construction of spectators’ seating, restrooms, a canteen, storage facilities, and other amenities at the Approved School pitch. “We are grateful for the government’s support thus far, but there’s more to be done, we plan to upgrade Parade Field, Magburaka Field, Makeni, and Mattru Jong.”

“We are committed to improving football because it belongs to the people of Sierra Leone.”

Councilor Abu Bakarr Kamara, Local Chief Pa Alimamy Conteh, and members of the Approved School Sports Promoters Association warmly welcomed the delegation’ President Mr Brima.

In her statement, Minister Teima commended the SLFA’s efforts and recognized FIFA’s support, stressing the importance of the Association’s technical and administrative expertise for these projects’ success.

She pledged her ministry’s support for spectators’ seating at the Approved School.

However, the Edel Grass Construction Company representative, Hubertus Marinus van de Wetering, reported that the floodlights are completed and the turf installation is progressing steadily.

He anticipated that the Approved School Field be fully functional and ready for matches.