By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)

Minister of Sports in Sierra Leone, Madam Augusta James-Teima, has highlighted challenges faced during the 12th international Annual Sports Forum Sooperation in Russia.  She participated at the Forum as she discussed ways that would enhance global sporting assistance and development.

The forum gathered representatives from 40 countries, including heads of ministries responsible for sports, international organizations such as the UN and UNESCO, and prominent athletes, including Olympic champions.

The objective for the world’s sports forum was meant on fostering collaboration among sports stakeholders worldwide to enhance sporting activities and increase competitive opportunities for sports men and women.

One of the significant aspects of the conference was the proposal for a world-friendly tournament which is set to take place within the next two years.

This event aims to showcase the power of sports to promote cultural development, and facilitate the sharing of ideas and training opportunities across nations.

Madam James-Teima was encouraged by the Russian Gymnastics Association to be organizing trainings for Sierra Leonean gymnasts.

The initiative to train Sierra Leone gymnasts requires only the transportation costs for the athletes, while the Russian association will cover the training and other expenses.

Reflecting on her experience, Minister James-Teima noted the surprisingly strong religious commitment among the Russian attendees, with many participating in both church and mosque activities.

James-Teima expressed admiration for Russia’s robust youth sports systems that connect schools, universities, and national levels, thus emphasizing the importance of such links in fostering athletic development in Sierra Leone.

“The implementation of youth systems in Sierra Leone is still slow, but we must emulate successful models from larger nations like Russia. We have seen issues where older athletes compete against younger ones, which discourage young talents and hinders their dreams,” Madam James-Teima stated.